Crispy Crab Cake Egg Rolls: A Savory Seafood Snack Delight
Crab Cake Egg Rolls are a delightful fusion of two beloved dishes, combining the savory, tender flavors of crab cakes with the crispy, golden exterior of egg rolls. These little bites of heaven offer a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making them an ideal appetizer or snack for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a casual gathering with friends, a festive holiday party, or a family get-together, Crab Cake Egg Rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in its versatility, as it can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences, occasions, and tastes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 Servings (12 egg rolls)
- Category: Appetizers & Snacks
- Method: Fry
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1. Lump Crab Meat (1 lb)
The star of the show, lump crab meat is tender and sweet, with a delicate texture that complements the crispy egg roll wrapper. Crab meat is a rich source of protein and provides a subtle briny flavor that is the essence of the dish. It’s important to ensure that the crab meat is well-drained, as excess moisture can result in a soggy filling.
2. Mayonnaise (1/4 cup)
Mayonnaise is used in the filling to provide creaminess and moisture. It binds the ingredients together while also contributing to the rich, smooth texture of the crab cake mixture. If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier flavor.
3. Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp)
Dijon mustard adds a sharp, tangy flavor to the crab filling. It balances the richness of the mayonnaise and enhances the other seasonings. Dijon mustard also complements the crab’s sweetness, offering a bit of acidity that helps to brighten the dish.
4. Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp)
Worcestershire sauce is another key ingredient that deepens the flavor of the crab cake mixture. This fermented condiment adds umami, which is essential for building complex, savory flavors in the filling. It provides a subtle depth that enhances the crab without overpowering it.
5. Egg (1, beaten)
The egg serves as a binder for the crab cake filling, helping to hold the ingredients together while cooking. It contributes to the dish’s creamy texture and gives the filling a smooth, cohesive quality. A beaten egg is mixed into the crab cake mixture to ensure that the filling stays intact during cooking.
6. Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup)
Breadcrumbs provide structure to the filling, offering a slight crunch and helping the filling hold its shape inside the egg roll wrapper. They also absorb any excess moisture from the crab meat, ensuring that the filling is not too wet. The breadcrumbs contribute to the golden, crisp texture that you’ll find in every bite of these egg rolls.
7. Green Onions (1/4 cup, finely chopped)
Green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens up the crab cake mixture. Their crisp texture provides a nice contrast to the creamy filling and gives the dish an extra burst of freshness.
8. Red Bell Pepper (1/4 cup, finely chopped)
Red bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness, color, and crunch to the filling. Its mild flavor complements the crab and helps to balance out the richness of the mayonnaise and egg. The red bell pepper also adds a pop of color to the filling, making the egg rolls visually appealing.
9. Lemon Juice (1 tbsp)
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the crab filling. The acidity from the lemon helps to balance the flavors and adds a refreshing element to the dish.
10. Old Bay Seasoning (1 tsp)
Old Bay seasoning is a classic seasoning mix that pairs perfectly with seafood. It combines a blend of celery salt, paprika, mustard, and other spices to create a flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the crab. Old Bay is a must for any crab-based dish, and it provides a savory and slightly spicy kick to the filling.
11. Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the crab cake filling and enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. It’s important to taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
12. Egg Roll Wrappers (12)
The egg roll wrappers are what give these crab cakes their crispy, golden exterior. They are thin sheets of dough that crisp up beautifully when fried. You can find egg roll wrappers in most grocery stores, typically in the refrigerated section.
13. Vegetable Oil for Frying
Vegetable oil is used to fry the egg rolls, creating the golden, crispy texture on the outside. It’s essential to heat the oil to the right temperature (350°F/175°C) to ensure that the egg rolls cook evenly and develop a perfectly crispy exterior.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crab Cake Filling
Begin by preparing the crab cake filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, green onions, red bell pepper, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until they are well combined, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much. You want to maintain the delicate texture of the crab, so mix gently.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with the point facing toward you, forming a diamond shape. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the crab cake mixture near the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Roll the egg roll tightly, making sure that the filling is securely enclosed inside. Use a small amount of water to seal the edges of the wrapper. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Heat the Oil and Fry the Egg Rolls
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test the oil, drop a small piece of egg roll wrapper into the oil. If it sizzles and turns golden brown within about a minute, the oil is ready. Fry the crab cake egg rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per batch. Once cooked, remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the golden, crispy egg rolls on a serving platter and serve them with your choice of dipping sauce. Tartar sauce, spicy aioli, or even a simple squeeze of lemon can enhance the flavors of the crab cake egg rolls. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Baking Option: For a healthier alternative to frying, you can bake the egg rolls. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the egg rolls on a baking sheet. Lightly brush them with oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Make Ahead: If you want to prepare these egg rolls in advance, you can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply fry or bake them as directed.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Ensure that the egg roll wrappers are also gluten-free.