Maryland Style Crab Cakes by Chef Brian

Introduction

Maryland-style crab cakes are a beloved delicacy, and Chef Brian's recipe stands out as one of the finest. Known for its simplicity and robust flavor, this recipe has been a well-kept secret from one of the top restaurants where Chef Brian worked. Now, it's time to share this culinary gem with the world.

Ingredients and Preparation

Crab Cake Dressing

• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup finely ground onion, well-drained

Instructions for Dressing

1. Use a food processor to finely grind the onion.
2. Let the ground onion drain in a colander for at least 20 minutes without pressing.
3. Mix the eggs, salt, cayenne pepper, and drained onion together using a large wire whip until smooth.

Crab Cakes

• 1 pound blue crab claw meat
• 1 pound blue crab lump meat
• 4 ounces cracker crumbs (made from saltines)
• 1 1/4 cups dressing (prepared above)

Instructions for Crab Cakes

1. Gently mix the crab meat, cracker crumbs, and dressing by hand until fully moistened.
2. Weigh out 4-ounce portions and hand-form them into round cakes about 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
3. Wrap each cake in 6-inch squares of wax paper and refrigerate for 2 hours before cooking.
4. Sauté the cakes in clarified butter until golden brown on both sides. (To clarify butter, heat until almost boiling, let it set until it separates, and use the clear portion on top.)

Serving Suggestions

These crab cakes can be served on their own or as a complement to light-flavored fish such as grouper, scamp, or tilapia. The recipe yields approximately 12-13 cakes.

Cost and Quality

Blue crab meat can be quite pricey, with claw meat costing around $12-$14 per pound and lump meat around $18-$20 per pound. However, making these crab cakes at home will cost about $3 each, offering a more affordable and superior alternative to most restaurant versions.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Blue Crab Population: The blue crab population in the Chesapeake Bay has seen fluctuations over the years. In 2021, the population was estimated at 282 million, a significant decrease from previous years (Chesapeake Bay Program).
• Economic Impact: The blue crab industry is vital to Maryland's economy, contributing over $100 million annually (Maryland Department of Natural Resources).
• Nutritional Value: Blue crab meat is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is high in protein, low in fat, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids (National Institutes of Health).

Conclusion

Chef Brian's Maryland-style crab cakes are a testament to the beauty of simple, well-crafted recipes. With high-quality ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, these crab cakes are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfaction of creating a dish that rivals the best restaurants.

For more information on the blue crab population and its economic impact, visit the Chesapeake Bay Program and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Enjoy your culinary journey with Chef Brian's Maryland-style crab cakes!