Description
Crab Crunchies are golden, crispy, crab-filled bites that are perfect as a party appetizer or a quick seafood snack. They have a creamy, seasoned interior and a satisfyingly crunchy panko coating.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup lump crab meat or imitation crab, finely chopped
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or paprika)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped crab meat, softened cream cheese, sliced green onions, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and your chosen seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Scoop about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a bite-sized ball. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to firm up.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Working one ball at a time, coat it in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F. Carefully lower the crab crunchies into the hot oil in small batches.
- Fry for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the crab crunchies with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve the Crab Crunchies warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as spicy mayo, sweet chili sauce, or lemon garlic aioli.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the crab mixture is well-chilled before breading to help the crab crunchies hold their shape during cooking.
- Fresh lump crab meat provides the best flavor and texture, but imitation crab can be used as a more budget-friendly option.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the breaded crab balls at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping once.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness; avoid using a microwave.
- For gluten-free Crab Crunchies, use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying (or Baking)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 pieces
- Calories: Approximately 150-180 kcal
- Sugar: Less than 1g
- Sodium: Approximately 100-150mg
- Fat: 10-12g
- Saturated Fat: 3-4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7-8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Fiber: Less than 1g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Cholesterol: 20-30mg