Craving a tantalizing appetizer that's both elegant and effortlessly delicious? Look no further than these irresistible fried crab balls! Imagine the delightful crunch of the golden-brown exterior giving way to a succulent, savory crab filling bursting with flavor. These little morsels are perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. We've perfected a recipe that balances the sweetness of crab meat with a perfectly seasoned batter, ensuring each bite is a miniature explosion of taste.
Forget complicated recipes and long preparation times; our easy-to-follow instructions will have you creating these delectable crab balls in a flash. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you'll be enjoying these addictive treats in no time. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide!
Tools Needed
- Small pan
- Large bowl
- Baking sheet
- Plastic wrap
- Bowls for breading
- Pot or deep fryer
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Diced onions: 1/4 cup
- Diced bell peppers: 1/4 cup
- Salt
- Pepper
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Lemon juice: 2 teaspoons
- Worcestershire sauce: 2 teaspoons
- Old Bay hot sauce: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Onion powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Creole seasoning: 1/4 teaspoon
- Old Bay seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon
- Parsley: 1 tablespoon
- Beaten egg: 1
- Lump crab meat: 12 ounces
- Bread crumbs: 1/3 cup
- Green onions: 1/4 cup
- Flour
- Eggs: 2
- Panko bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil
- Hot sauce: 1/2 tablespoon
- Smoked paprika
- Cayenne pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Crab Mixture
- In a small pan over medium heat, add olive oil, then add 1/4 cup of diced onions and 1/4 cup of diced bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay hot sauce, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Creole seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, and 1 beaten egg. Mix well.
- Add crab meat, bread crumbs, sautéed vegetables, and green onions to the bowl. Fold everything together until well combined.
- Roll the crab mixture into balls, making sure they are tightly packed. Use an ice cream scooper or cookie scooper for even sizes.
- Cover the crab balls in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2. Bread and Fry the Crab Balls
- Season flour with pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and Old Bay; beat 2 eggs; and mix panko and regular breadcrumbs with pepper and Old Bay.
- flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Repeat until all are coated.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350 degrees in a pot or deep fryer. Fry crab balls for 4-5 minutes, flipping for even color.
- Place fried crab balls on a wire rack to drain.
Step 3. Make the Dipping Sauce
- Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve crab balls with sauce.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Chill the crab balls before frying to help them maintain their shape.
- Leftovers can be frozen and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab meat?
Yes, imitation crab meat will work in a pinch, but the flavor will be less intense. Real crab meat is definitely preferred for the best taste.
2. How long can I keep leftover fried crab balls?
Store leftover crab balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or oven before serving.
These easy-to-make fried crab balls are guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. Their delightful combination of crispy exterior and succulent crab filling will leave your guests wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, follow our recipe, and prepare to be amazed by the delicious results!