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Air Fryer Crab Cakes – Maryland Style Recipe

When it comes to seafood delicacies, few dishes evoke the rich culinary heritage of the Chesapeake Bay quite like Maryland-style crab cakes. Renowned for their sweet, succulent crab meat and delicate blend of spices, these cakes have won hearts (and stomachs) far beyond the limits of their home state. With the rising popularity of air fryers, preparing this classic dish at home has never been easier or healthier. In this article, we will guide you through an authentic Maryland-style crab cake recipe, adapted for the air fryer, ensuring you capture the true essence of this treasured dish without sacrificing flavour.

Ingredients

For the Crab Cakes:

• 450g fresh lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 50g fine breadcrumbs (preferably from a white bread)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (a classic Maryland spice blend)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Additional breadcrumbs for coating

For the Remoulade Sauce (Optional):

• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped capers or gherkins
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat with the fine breadcrumbs. Use a fork to break apart any larger pieces of crab while being careful not to break them too much, as you want to maintain a nice texture.

2. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and the beaten egg to the crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper, and fold in the chopped parsley. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined; avoid over-mixing, which can lead to dense crab cakes.

Step 2: Form the Crab Cakes

1. Once the mixture is well combined, form it into approximately 8 small patties, or 4 larger ones, depending on your preference. Flatten them slightly to help them cook evenly.

2. Once shaped, place the patties on a plate or tray. Sprinkle the additional breadcrumbs over both sides of each crab cake to create a crispy coating when cooked.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for around 5 minutes. This step helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.

Step 4: Air Fry the Crab Cakes

1. Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the crab cakes in the basket, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for proper air circulation. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

2. Cook the crab cakes for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Prepare the Remoulade Sauce (Optional)

1. While the crab cakes are cooking, you can whip up a quick remoulade sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, chopped capers or gherkins, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside in the fridge to chill.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the crab cakes are cooked through, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute before serving. Plate them alongside the remoulade sauce for dipping, and perhaps some lemon wedges for an extra zing.

Conclusion

These air fryer crab cakes are a fantastic way to enjoy the iconic flavours of Maryland seafood without the guilt of traditional frying. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they make for an excellent appetiser or a delightful main dish. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a taste of the coast, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your friends and family, and treat yourselves to a taste of Maryland in the comfort of your own home!