Crab cakes are a popular seafood dish that are loved by many. One serving of 1 cake (8 oz) crab cake contains about 372 calories. It's important to know the nutritional value of the food you're consuming, so let's take a closer look at the ingredients in a crab cake.
Crab cakes usually include lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings like Old Bay or garlic powder. These ingredients provide a delicious mix of flavors and textures that make crab cakes so popular.
In this article, we'll explore how to cook crab cakes, discuss some healthy sides to pair with them, and even share some recipes that use crab cakes creatively.
What are the ingredients in a Crab Cake?
As mentioned earlier, crab cakes are usually made using lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. These ingredients work together to form a crab cake patty that's packed with flavor. If you're looking to make your own crab cake, be sure to get high-quality lump crab meat and use fresh ingredients. Experiment with different seasonings to create your own unique blend of flavors. For those with dietary restrictions, there are also gluten-free and low-fat versions of crab cakes available.
How many grams of protein are in a Crab Cake?
Crab meat is a great source of protein, and a single 8 oz crab cake contains about 24 grams of protein. This makes crab cakes a great choice for those who are looking to incorporate more protein in their diet. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in our body, as well as helping to maintain healthy muscles and bones.
What is the fat content of a Crab Cake?
Crab cakes do contain some fat, but the amount depends on the recipe and ingredients used. On average, an 8 oz crab cake contains about 20 grams of fat. However, crab meat is high in healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of heart disease. To reduce the fat content in your crab cakes, try using low-fat mayonnaise and breadcrumbs, or baking the crab cakes instead of frying them.
What is the serving size of a Crab Cake?
One serving of crab cake is typically 8 oz, which is equivalent to one cake. However, this can vary depending on the recipe and restaurant. It's important to keep portion sizes in mind when consuming crab cakes or any other food, as overconsumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
How many carbs are in a Crab Cake?
Crab cakes are relatively low in carbohydrates, with one 8 oz cake containing about 14 grams of carbs. This makes crab cakes a good option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
How is a Crab Cake cooked?
Crab cakes can be prepared using a variety of cooking methods, including frying, baking, or grilling. To pan-fry your crab cakes, simply heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Baking or grilling your crab cakes can also provide a healthier option, as it reduces added fat and calories.
What are some healthy sides to pair with a Crab Cake?
Pairing your crab cakes with healthy sides can help to balance out the meal and provide additional nutrients. Some healthy side dish options include roasted vegetables, brown rice, quinoa salad, or fresh greens with a vinaigrette dressing.
What are some recipes that use Crab Cakes?
Crab cakes can be used in a variety of recipes to add a delicious seafood flavor. Some creative recipe ideas include crab cake eggs benedict, crab cake sliders, crab cake tacos, or crab cake salad. Experiment with different recipes and ingredients to create your own unique dishes using crab cakes.
What are the health benefits of Crab Meat?
Crab meat is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Some additional health benefits of crab meat include aiding in weight loss, improving heart health, and boosting immune function.
Can Crab Cakes be frozen?
Yes, crab cakes can be frozen for later use. To freeze crab cakes, simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the crab cakes in the refrigerator overnight and cook as desired.
Crab cakes are a delicious and flavorful seafood dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking for a healthy dinner option or a party appetizer, crab cakes are sure to please.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crab Cakes
1. What are the ingredients in a typical crab cake?
A typical crab cake is made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, onion, celery, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Additional ingredients may include red pepper flakes, parsley, and lemon juice.
2. How many calories are in a crab cake?
The number of calories in a crab cake can vary depending on the recipe and size of the cake. A typical 8 oz crab cake contains around 372 calories.
3. How do you cook crab cakes?
To cook crab cakes, you can either bake them in the oven or fry them in a pan. For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F and place the crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. For frying, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
4. What should you serve with crab cakes?
Crab cakes can be served with a variety of sides, including coleslaw, roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad. Tartar sauce or aioli are popular dipping sauces for crab cakes.
5. Can you freeze crab cakes?
Yes, you can freeze crab cakes either cooked or uncooked. To freeze uncooked crab cakes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze cooked crab cakes, let them cool to room temperature and then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.