Image Source from reallifeoflulu

Open Faced Crab Melt Sandwich Recipe

The open-faced crab melt sandwich is a delectable creation that celebrates the sweet, delicate flavour of fresh crab meat, complemented by rich cheese and zesty toppings. This dish not only makes for an inviting lunch but also serves as a sophisticated starter for dinner parties. Whether you’re using leftover crab or fresh crab meat, this sandwich is perfect for showcasing the fantastic seafood in British cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Crab Mixture:

• 200g fresh crab meat (or tinned crab, drained)
• 50g cream cheese (softened)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Zest of half a lemon
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Sandwich:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread (or your choice of hearty bread)
• 100g mature Cheddar cheese (grated)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh crab meat, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Gently fold together to maintain the integrity of the crab.
2. Add the Dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, and dill. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to break up the crab meat too much.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

1. Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting.
2. Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread. This will create a beautiful golden crust when toasted.
3. Place the slices butter-side down on a baking tray and place them under the grill for a few minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the grill.
2. Divide the crab mixture evenly across the toasted slices, spreading it generously.
3. Top each serving with a generous handful of grated mature Cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

1. Return the topped slices to the grill and cook until the cheese is bubbling and golden, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Again, keep a close watch to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once the cheese has melted to your liking, remove from the grill and allow to cool for a minute.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra zing.

Tips

• For added flavour, consider incorporating finely chopped spring onions or shallots into the crab mixture.
• Swap the Cheddar for other cheeses like Gruyère or a smoked cheese to bring a different taste to your melt.
• Serve with a light salad or crisps for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The open-faced crab melt sandwich is a delightful way to enjoy the flavours of the sea, made simple and satisfying with minimal ingredients. Perfect for a leisurely lunch or a gathering with friends, this recipe encapsulates the essence of British seaside cuisine. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent treat!

No items listed in the response.