Cook Crab Cakes In Butter Or Oil
Crab cakes are a delicious seafood dish that can be made in a variety of ways. One of the most important decisions that you will need to make when cooking crab cakes is whether to use butter or oil. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the pros and cons of using butter versus oil to cook crab cakes.
Butter
Butter is a popular choice for cooking crab cakes because it adds a rich, buttery flavor to the dish. When butter is heated, it starts to brown and develop a delicious nutty flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for cooking crab cakes, which benefit from a slightly browned exterior.
However, there are some downsides to using butter. Butter has a tendency to burn quickly, which can result in burned crab cakes. It is also a less healthy option than oil, as it is high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Oil
Oil is another popular choice for cooking crab cakes. It is a healthier option than butter, as it is lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. It is also less likely to burn than butter, making it a more forgiving option for novice cooks.
One of the downsides of using oil is that it does not add the same rich, buttery flavor to the dish as butter does. However, this can be easily remedied by adding some butter to the dish once it is finished cooking.
How to Cook Crab Cakes in Butter or Oil
Now that you understand the pros and cons of using butter versus oil to cook crab cakes, it's time to learn how to cook them.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound crabmeat
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the crabmeat, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat.
- Add the crab cakes to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the crab cakes from the skillet and serve hot.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to cook your crab cakes in butter or oil, there is no denying that they are a delicious and satisfying seafood dish. By understanding the pros and cons of each cooking method, you can make an informed decision that will result in perfectly cooked crab cakes every time.