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Crab Crunchies

Crab Crunchies

Crab Crunchies are a crispy, flavorful snack that combines tender fresh crab meat with a crunchy panko coating. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or quick savory bites, these snacks offer a balanced taste of seafood with a satisfying crunch. Easy to prepare and customizable with spices and mix-ins, Crab Crunchies are a versatile, crowd-pleasing appetizer everyone will enjoy.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: About 12-15 pieces

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh crab meat – 1 cup, gently flaked
  • Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup (or gluten-free alternative)
  • Egg – 1 large
  • Mayonnaise – 2 tablespoons
  • Green onions – 2 stalks, finely chopped
  • Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
  • Vegetable oil – for frying (about 2 cups)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crab Mixture: Gently flake the fresh crab meat into a bowl, being careful not to mash it. Add chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix in the mayonnaise and egg until the ingredients are combined but not overly wet.
  2. Shape the Crunchies: Take small handfuls of the crab mixture and form them into bite-sized patties or balls. Ensure that they are compact to hold together during frying.
  3. Coat with Panko: Roll each patty or ball thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs, covering the entire surface to ensure a crunchy texture when fried.
  4. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C). Fry the coated crab pieces in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Let the Crab Crunchies cool for a minute after frying, then serve fresh for optimal crunch and flavor.

Notes

  • Keep crab meat cold to hold together better and release less moisture during cooking.
  • Do not overwork the crab mixture; gently fold to keep crab flakes intact and avoid mushiness.
  • Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
  • Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to prevent soggy or burnt crunchies.
  • Drain fried crunchies well on paper towels to keep them light and crispy.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Diet: Can be made gluten-free with substitutions

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 pieces
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: crab snack, crispy appetizer, seafood appetizer, party snack, fried crab, gluten-free crab crunchies