The Best Phillips Crab Cake Recipe: Authentic Maryland-Style Crab Cakes
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Phillips Crab Cake.Want to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home? The Phillips crab cake recipe brings Maryland’s coastal flavors right to your kitchen in just 20 minutes. Since 1956, Phillips Seafood in Baltimore has perfected this dish. They use fresh crab meat and a golden crust to make tender, flavorful Maryland crab cakes every time.
Key Takeaways
- Prepare authentic Phillips crab cake recipe in under 20 minutes.
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture.
- Phillips Seafood’s heritage ensures authentic Maryland flavors.
- Pan-fry, bake, or broil crab cakes for crisp results.
- Pair with homemade tartar or remoulade sauce.
- Store uncooked crab cakes for quick meals later.
The Legacy of Phillips Seafood and Maryland Crab Cakes
Phillips Seafood has been a key player in Maryland’s crab cake scene for decades. Its rich history shows the restaurant’s dedication to quality and tradition. Exploring Maryland crab cake history, you’ll see Phillips Seafood’s big role in shaping the state’s food identity.
What makes Maryland crab cakes stand out? It’s the freshness of ingredients, expertise in making them, and a deep understanding of the traditional recipe. These factors give them a unique flavor and texture.
History of Phillips Seafood Restaurant
Phillips Seafood was started by Augustine Phillips, a waterman with a love for fresh seafood. The restaurant has stayed family-owned, with each generation adding to its legacy.
What Makes Maryland Crab Cakes Special
So, why are Maryland crab cakes so special? The Chesapeake Bay’s fresh blue crabs are key. The unique spices and seasonings, like Old Bay and Worcestershire sauce, add a distinct Maryland flavor.
The Phillips Family Recipe Heritage
The Phillips family recipe is a secret, but the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and tradition is clear. They use only the best ingredients and traditional methods. This ensures the crab cakes showcase Maryland’s rich flavors and textures.
Exploring Phillips Seafood and Maryland crab cake history reveals a world of tradition, quality, and community. Whether you’re from Maryland or just visiting, trying Phillips Seafood’s crab cakes is a must for seafood fans.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Phillips Crab Cake Recipe
To make a real Phillips crab cake, you need fresh, top-quality crab cake ingredients. The secret is mixing jumbo lump crab meat with gentle spices and a hint of seasoning. Each ingredient adds to the crab cake’s taste and feel.
Fresh jumbo lump crab meat is key for tender, juicy crab cakes. You also need the right spices and seasonings. Think about using Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and fresh lemon juice.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Phillips crab cake recipe:
- 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
With these crab cake ingredients and the Phillips recipe, you’ll make tasty Maryland-style crab cakes. Be gentle with the crab meat and don’t overmix. This keeps the crab cakes tender and flavorful.
With these ingredients and a bit of practice, you’ll get great at making Phillips crab cakes. The mix of fresh crab, spices, and seasoning makes a dish that’s tasty and looks good. Whether you’re experienced or new to cooking, this recipe will be a hit.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jumbo lump crab meat | 1 pound |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Finely chopped yellow onion | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
Selecting and Preparing Your Crab Meat
Quality crab cakes begin with the right crab meat. Freshness and texture are key. Follow these tips to get the best ingredients for Maryland-style crab cakes.
Types of Crab Meat to Use
Blue crab is the top choice for real flavor. Phillips Seafood uses Chesapeake Bay blue crab for their famous cakes. Here are the main types:
- Lump: Large, tender pieces for visible chunks.
- Jumbo lump: Premium meat from the crab’s fins, known for its texture.
- Backfin: Smaller pieces mixed with shredded meat, more affordable.
- Claw: Darker, richer meat for sauces or fillings.
How to Check for Shell Fragments
Spread crab meat thinly on a light-colored tray under bright light. Use your fingers to find hard edges. For tough fragments:
| Tool | Method |
|---|---|
| Tweezers | Pluck visible shells |
| Bowl of water | Float meat; shells sink |
| Strainer | Shake gently to separate debris |
Proper Handling Techniques
Keep crab meat cold until you use it. Drain excess liquid carefully to avoid breaking pieces. Mix ingredients gently by hand to keep them light. Overmixing makes cakes dense and rubbery. Chill formed patties for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavors.
Step-by-Step Mixing and Forming Your Crab Cakes
When mixing crab cake ingredients, be gentle. This helps keep the crab meat lumps intact. Start by mixing all the ingredients in a big bowl. Be careful not to mix too much.
After mixing, it’s time to shape the crab cakes. Use your hands to make patties, about 1 1/2 inches thick and 3 inches wide. You should get 8-10 crab cakes, depending on their size. Put the crab cakes on a plate, cover them with plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Here are some tips for crab cake forming:
- Handle the crab cakes gently to avoid breaking them.
- Use a gentle pressing motion to shape the mixture into patties.
- Don’t overwork the mixture, as this can make the crab cakes dense and tough.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll make delicious crab cakes. Remember to be gentle during crab cake mixing and crab cake forming. Avoid overmixing or overworking the mixture.
Cooking Methods and Techniques
Mastering crab cake cooking means picking the right method for your taste. You might want a crispy outside or a soft finish. These techniques help your Maryland-style crab cakes stay moist inside and golden outside.
Pan-Frying Instructions
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place crab cakes in the pan, leaving space. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden.
Use a spatula to flip them gently. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan for even browning.
Baking Options
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Put crab cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
This method uses less oil but keeps the cakes tender. Place them on a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
Broiling Guidelines
Set your broiler to high and place the rack 6 inches below the heat. Brush crab cakes with oil or melted butter. Broil for 3-4 minutes on each side, watching to avoid burning.
“The key to flawless crab cakes lies in balancing heat and timing—too long, and they dry out; too short, and the center stays cool.”
Each method has its own benefits. Pan-frying gives a classic crisp, baking is great for big batches, and broiling is quick. Try different methods to find your favorite way to make Maryland crab cakes.
Signature Sauces and Accompaniments
To make your Phillips crab cakes even better, try different crab cake sauces and sides. The right sauce can really enhance your seafood recipes. Start with a classic tartar sauce. It’s made from mayonnaise, chopped pickles, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Remoulade sauce is another tasty choice. It’s a mix of mayonnaise, mustard, and herbs like parsley and dill. These sauces are not just yummy with crab cakes. They also go well with other seafood recipes. For a full meal, serve your crab cakes with coleslaw or a fresh salad.
- Grilled or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli
- Garlic bread or crusty bread for sopping up sauce
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing
By trying out different crab cake sauces and sides, you can make a complete and tasty meal. Whether it’s for a dinner party or just for yourself, these sauces and sides will elevate your seafood recipes.
| Sauce | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Tartar Sauce | Mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice |
| Remoulade Sauce | Mayonnaise, mustard, parsley, dill |
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Keeping your Maryland-style crab cakes fresh is key. Store cooked ones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use parchment paper between layers to stop sticking. Raw mixtures should be used within 24 hours for the best texture.
Freezing is another great way to keep them fresh. Here’s how:
- Shape uncooked crab cakes and place them on a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
- Freeze until solid (about 2 hours), then transfer to freezer-safe bags.
- Label with the date; store for up to 3 months.
“The secret to perfect make-ahead tips is minimizing moisture. Pat crab meat dry before mixing, and avoid overhandling the cakes to preserve their structure.” – Phillips Seafood culinary team
Plan your meals ahead by prepping parts early. Mix dry ingredients like breadcrumbs and spices in advance. Store them in sealed jars. Then, mix with crab meat and wet ingredients just before cooking.
Thaw frozen crab cakes in the fridge overnight before cooking. This way, they’ll be ready to pan-fry or bake.
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to get them crispy again. Don’t use the microwave, as it makes them soft. Serve with tartar sauce or remoulade for a quick, tasty meal.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Maryland-Style Crab Cakes at Home
Learning to make phillips crab cakes lets you bring Chesapeake Bay flavors home. Use high-quality lump crab meat and light seasonings to follow Maryland’s cooking tradition. Phillips Seafood shows that simple, fresh ingredients can make amazing crab cakes.
When mixing the ingredients, be gentle to avoid a dense texture. You can pan-fry for a crispy outside or bake for a healthier option. Both ways keep the crab inside tender and sweet, just like in authentic Maryland crab cakes. Use a nonstick skillet or parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Pair your crab cakes with homemade remoulade or tartar sauce for a burst of flavor. Serve with roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad. These sides match the balance found in Phillips restaurants, making your meals feel like a special treat.
Keep uncooked patties in the fridge for up to 24 hours for quick meals. Reheat them at 325°F to keep them moist. Share your crab cake creations on #PhillipsCrabCakes to show off your skills. With practice, every bite will be a tribute to Maryland’s seafood heritage.
FAQ
What makes the Phillips Crab Cake recipe an authentic Maryland-style crab cake?
The Phillips Crab Cake recipe is true to Maryland’s crab cake tradition. It uses top-quality jumbo lump crab meat. This is mixed with the right seasonings and binders to keep the crab’s natural taste and texture.
How long does it take to prepare the Phillips Crab Cakes?
You can make the Phillips Crab Cakes in just 20 minutes. This makes them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special event. You can enjoy these amazing crab cakes at home, just like at Phillips Seafood restaurants.
What are the key ingredients in the Phillips Crab Cake recipe?
The Phillips Crab Cake recipe includes jumbo lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and mayonnaise. It also has Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. These ingredients work together to bring out the crab’s natural flavors and create a tasty crab cake.
How do I properly select and prepare the crab meat for the Phillips Crab Cakes?
Choose high-quality jumbo lump crab meat for the Phillips Crab Cakes. Look for large, tender chunks with a sweet flavor. Make sure to remove any shell fragments and gently mix the ingredients to keep the crab meat intact.
What are the best cooking methods for the Phillips Crab Cakes?
You can cook the Phillips Crab Cakes in several ways: pan-frying, baking, or broiling. Each method gives a different look and taste. Pan-frying is a classic choice, while baking or broiling are good for bigger batches.
What sauces and accompaniments pair well with the Phillips Crab Cakes?
The Phillips Crab Cakes are great on their own but even better with certain sauces and sides. Try them with tartar sauce, remoulade sauce, or fresh vegetables or salads. These pairings enhance the crab cake’s flavors.
How can I store and make the Phillips Crab Cakes ahead of time?
You can store and make the Phillips Crab Cakes ahead to save time. Uncooked crab cakes can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and cook them when you’re ready. This makes the crab cakes a flexible choice for any event.