Best Lump Crab Meat For Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a classic seafood dish that are loved by many. They are made with different types of crab meat, but lump crab meat is believed to be the best. Crab cakes made with lump crab meat are known for their sweet, tender, and succulent taste. However, not all lump crab meat is created equal. In this article, we will discuss the best lump crab meat for crab cakes and why it is important to choose the right one.
What is Lump Crab Meat?
Lump crab meat is the chunks of meat that come from the body of the crab. They are the biggest pieces of meat and are usually white or light brown in color. This type of crab meat is more expensive than other types because it is the most desirable for recipes like crab cakes. It has a sweet and delicate flavour that is perfect for various dishes.
Types of Lump Crab Meat
There are two types of lump crab meat that you can find in the market:
- Jumbo lump crab meat - this comes from the two muscle groups that connect the crab's back fin to its swimming legs. It is the most expensive type of lump crab meat since it is the biggest and most flavorful.
- Backfin lump crab meat - this comes from the smaller flakes of meat found on the sides of the crab. It is still high-quality crab meat and is usually cheaper than jumbo lump crab meat.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Lump Crab Meat for Crab Cakes
When choosing the best lump crab meat for crab cakes, there are several factors that you should consider:
- Freshness - the crab meat should be fresh to ensure that it has a sweet and tender taste. The meat should not have a strong fishy smell or odor.
- Certifications - choose crab meat that has certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) to ensure that it comes from sustainable sources and is not harmful to the environment.
- Type of lump crab meat - as mentioned earlier, there are two types of lump crab meat. Choose the one that suits your preference and budget.
- Packaging - choose crab meat that is packed in airtight containers and has not been exposed to air for long periods. This ensures that the meat is still fresh and does not spoil easily.
Best Lump Crab Meat Brands for Crab Cakes
Here are some of the best lump crab meat brands for crab cakes:
- Phillips Seafood - Phillips Seafood is a well-known brand that sells high-quality crab meat. They have been in the business for over 100 years and are known for their jumbo lump crab meat.
- Blue Star Foods - Blue Star Foods is a company that specializes in selling sustainably sourced and traceable seafood, including lump crab meat. Their lump crab meat is of high quality and is perfect for making crab cakes.
- Chicken of the Sea - Chicken of the Sea is a popular seafood brand that sells different types of seafood, including lump crab meat. They have a reputation for selling fresh and delicious seafood products.
- J.O. Spice - J.O. Spice is a company that sells crab meat from the Chesapeake Bay area. Their crab meat is fresh and of high quality, making it ideal for crab cakes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lump crab meat for your crab cakes is crucial to ensure that they are delicious, sweet, and tender. Always choose fresh and sustainably sourced crab meat from reputable brands like Phillips Seafood, Blue Star Foods, Chicken of the Sea, and J.O. Spice. Consider the type of lump crab meat, certifications, and packaging when making your choice. With the right lump crab meat, you can make the perfect crab cakes that will delight your taste buds!
