Famous Crab Bombs are delectable, bite-sized morsels packed with the sweet and succulent flavor of jumbo lump crab meat. These are not your average crab cakes; they are designed to be incredibly tender with minimal filler, allowing the high-quality crab to truly shine. The “bomb” moniker likely refers to the burst of flavor you experience with each bite. Typically, the crab meat is gently bound together with just enough mayonnaise, a lightly beaten egg, and perhaps a touch of Dijon mustard for a subtle tang. Some recipes might include a small amount of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to help bind and absorb moisture, but the focus remains firmly on the crab. These mixtures are then formed into small balls or mounds and often seasoned simply with salt, black pepper, and maybe a dash of Old Bay seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley or chives to complement the crab’s natural sweetness. The prepared crab bombs are then typically baked, broiled, or pan-fried until they are golden brown and heated through. The result is a tender, flavorful appetizer or snack that highlights the delicate taste of fresh, high-quality crab with a minimal amount of additional ingredients to distract from it. They are often served warm with a wedge of lemon or a simple dipping sauce like aioli or tartar sauce, allowing the pure flavor of the crab to be the star. These crab bombs are a sophisticated yet easy-to-enjoy treat, perfect for seafood lovers and elegant enough for special occasions.
The texture of Famous Crab Bombs is primarily tender and moist, with the distinct, slightly stringy texture of jumbo lump crab meat. If a minimal amount of binder like breadcrumbs or crushed crackers is used, it provides a slight softness without being overly dense. The exterior, depending on the cooking method, can have a delicate golden-brown crust if pan-fried or broiled, adding a subtle textural contrast to the soft interior. The overall texture is delicate and allows the quality of the crab meat to be fully appreciated.
The flavor profile of Famous Crab Bombs is predominantly sweet and rich, showcasing the natural flavor of high-quality jumbo lump crab meat. The minimal use of other ingredients ensures that the delicate sweetness of the crab is not overpowered. The mayonnaise adds a creamy richness, while Dijon mustard provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness. Seasonings like salt, black pepper, and Old Bay enhance the crab’s natural flavor without masking it. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a bright, herbaceous note. The overall flavor is clean, fresh, and intensely crab-centric.
Famous Crab Bombs are an ideal appetizer for seafood lovers and are often served at parties, cocktail hours, or as a starter for a special meal. Their elegant presentation and delicious flavor make them a sophisticated choice for various occasions. They are best served warm to highlight their flavor and tender texture and are often accompanied by a simple lemon wedge or a light dipping sauce to complement the richness of the crab.
The preparation of Famous Crab Bombs involves gently combining high-quality jumbo lump crab meat with a minimal amount of binder and seasonings. The key is to handle the crab meat delicately to avoid breaking up the lumps. The binder typically includes mayonnaise, a lightly beaten egg, and optionally, a small amount of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. Seasonings are usually simple, such as salt, black pepper, and perhaps Old Bay seasoning or fresh herbs. Once the ingredients are gently mixed, they are formed into small balls or mounds. These crab bombs are then cooked using various methods such as baking in a preheated oven until golden brown and heated through, broiling for a similar result, or pan-frying in a little butter or oil until they develop a nice crust.
Ingredients:
- 450 g (1 lb) jumbo lump crab meat (fresh, picked over for shells)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 30-60 g (1/4 – 1/2 cup) mayonnaise (use just enough to bind)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 30 g (1/4 cup) panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for binding)
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Butter or oil, for cooking (if pan-frying)
- Lemon wedges or dipping sauce (aioli, tartar sauce), for serving
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet (if baking or broiling)
- Parchment paper (if baking or broiling)
- Skillet (if pan-frying)
- Spatula
Instructions:
- Preheat Cooking Method (if applicable): If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If broiling, preheat your broiler.
- Gently Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the jumbo lump crab meat, lightly beaten egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers (if using), and Old Bay seasoning (if using). Be very careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat too much; you want them to remain as intact as possible.
- Season: Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed, keeping in mind the natural saltiness of the crab.
- Form Crab Bombs: Gently form the crab mixture into small balls or mounds, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Handle them as little as possible to maintain the lumpiness of the crab.
- Cook the Crab Bombs:
- Baking: Place the crab bombs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
- Broiling: Place the crab bombs on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes per side, watching carefully to prevent burning, until golden brown and heated through.
- Pan-Frying: Heat a little butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Gently place the crab bombs in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully transfer the crab bombs to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh chives, if desired. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce, such as aioli or tartar sauce.
Enjoy these delicious Famous Crab Bombs!