Best Way To Cook Frozen Crab Cakes
Cooking crab cakes can be a daunting task for many people, especially when using frozen crab cakes. However, with the right techniques and equipment, cooking frozen crab cakes can be easy and enjoyable. In this article, we will discuss the best way to cook frozen crab cakes that will yield delicious and flavorful results.
What are Frozen Crab Cakes?
Frozen crab cakes are pre-made crab cakes that have been frozen to preserve their freshness. They are commonly found in grocery stores and seafood markets and are made with crab meat, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, eggs, and seasoning.
Thawing Frozen Crab Cakes
The first step in cooking frozen crab cakes is to thaw them. Thawing them properly will ensure that they cook evenly and thoroughly. There are two ways to thaw frozen crab cakes:
- Refrigerator thawing: Place the frozen crab cakes in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking. This method is the safest and most recommended way to thaw frozen crab cakes.
- Quick thawing: Place the frozen crab cakes in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every half hour until the crab cakes are thawed. This method is faster than refrigerator thawing, but it is not recommended as it may lead to bacterial growth and uneven thawing.
Baking Frozen Crab Cakes
Baking frozen crab cakes is one of the easiest and healthiest cooking methods. It requires little to no oil, and the crab cakes will become crispy and golden brown. Here is how to bake frozen crab cakes:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Place the thawed crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab cakes are golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature is at least 145°F.
- Remove from the oven and let the crab cakes cool for a few minutes before serving.
Frying Frozen Crab Cakes
Frying frozen crab cakes will create a crispy and flavorful crust and is a popular cooking method. However, frying can be unhealthy and messy if not done correctly. Here is how to fry frozen crab cakes:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet.
- When the oil is hot, add the thawed crab cakes and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.
- Let the crab cakes cool for a few minutes before serving.
Grilling Frozen Crab Cakes
Grilling frozen crab cakes is a great way to infuse them with a smoky and charred flavor. It requires a grill and a few extra tools, but the result is worth the effort. Here is how to grill frozen crab cakes:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the thawed crab cakes with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Place the crab cakes on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the grill and let the crab cakes cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your frozen crab cakes are cooked and ready to serve, here are some serving suggestions that will complement their flavor:
- Tartar sauce
- Lemon wedges
- Cocktail sauce
- Remoulade sauce
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad greens
Conclusion
Cooking frozen crab cakes can be a fun and delicious experience if you follow the right techniques and cooking methods. By thawing them properly and baking, frying, or grilling them, you can achieve golden brown and crispy crab cakes that will impress your family and guests.