Original Old Bay Crab Cakes

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Crabmeat:
    • Carefully pick over the crabmeat to remove any remaining shells or cartilage.
    • Place the crabmeat in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the Crab Cake Mixture:
    • To the bowl with crabmeat, add mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and the optional chopped celery and green onions.
    • Gently fold the mixture together, being careful not to break up the crabmeat too much.
    • Add breadcrumbs a little at a time, just enough to help bind the mixture. The texture should hold together but remain moist.
  3. Form the Crab Cakes:
    • Using your hands, gently form the crab mixture into patties, about 1/2-inch thick and roughly 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
    • Place the patties on a plate or tray. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.
  4. Cook the Crab Cakes:
    • In a large skillet, heat the butter and vegetable oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
    • Add the crab cakes to the skillet in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
    • Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully using a spatula to avoid breaking the cakes.
  5. Serve:
    • Transfer the crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
    • Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce (such as tartar sauce or cocktail sauce)