Crab Cakes Delivery or Pickup

Crab cakes originated in Maryland in the 1930s. Crosby Gaige first used this term in the New York World's Fair Cook Book. This book featured "Baltimore Crab Cakes." While the concept of combining crab meat with spices and crackers or breadcrumbs likely existed before this time, the publication of this recipe gave the dish a recognizable name and began the crab cake's rise to fame.

Maryland blue crabs are used in the most traditional version of Maryland crab cakes. However, some products switch out Blue Swimmer crab meat in place of blue crab meat because it's a more affordable alternative. Maryland crab cakes are prepared in two main styles. Restaurant-style crab cakes are comprised entirely of crab meat in large chunks. The crab is pattied and either cooked on a buttered pan or broiled over an open flame. Boardwalk-style crab cakes contain other ingredients. They're typically made with egg and breadcrumbs or crackers as a filler. They also contain more spices and seasonings.

Crab cakes in the northern part of New England are often made with a thick cream sauce. Down in Louisiana, crab cakes are zestier with the addition of hot sauce and Cajun spices. These crab cakes contain flour in the mix. They're dipped in an egg wash and breading, then pan cooked in oil. Louisiana crab cakes are traditionally made with blue crabs.

You can make crab cakes at home, but purchasing prepared crab cakes is a faster, easier way to get this delicacy on your plate. You can purchase prepared crab cakes from several different brands. Check the label for more details on the exact ingredients used in a particular recipe. 

It's important to note that not all store-bought crab cakes actually contain crab. Check the packaging for terms like "imitation crab meat," which is typically made from pollock that is processed to mimic the flavor and appearance of crab. You might also find vegan crab cakes that are made with plant-based seafood. Plant-based crab substitutes often use chickpeas and hearts of palm to imitate crab.

There are many ways to prepare pre-made crab cakes. It's best to consult the packaging for the optimum preparation method. In general, you'll want to cook your crab cakes in the oven on a buttered baking sheet. Brushing the crab cakes with oil before baking can help them to crisp up nicely and take on the flavor of freshly-made crab cakes. Alternately, you might be able to deep-fry your crab cakes if you have a deep fryer at the ready.

Thawing prepared crab cakes for at least three hours before cooking will greatly reduce the overall cooking time. This may also help you avoid any problems with a crispy exterior and cold center.

If you prefer your crab cakes with a cream sauce, you can prepare this using a simple blend of mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, and vinegar. Add spices and hot sauce for a Cajun cream sauce with some kick. 

Crab cakes are traditionally served with a lemon wedge on the side. Potato salad and fries are common sides for this dish, but you might also try coleslaw, corn salad, or mango salsa for a fresh kick of flavor.