Fresh Dungeness Crab Recipe Series: Classic Crab Cakes with a Twist

Classic Crab Cakes with a Twist: A Celebration of Dungeness Crab

Transform your evening meals from the usual to the unforgettable with a dish that brings the essence of the sea right to your table: Classic Crab Cakes with a Twist. This recipe isn't just about crafting the perfect crab cake; it's a homage to the Dungeness crab, a true gem of the Bay Area. With each bite, you're tasting the fresh, sweet flavors that only the local waters can provide.

In the heart of the local season, we're fortunate to have access to fresh whole cooked Dungeness crab, sourced directly from the cold, nutrient-rich waters of San Francisco and Northern California. For those who prefer convenience without compromising on quality, we also offer pulled Dungeness crab meat, ready to elevate any dish with its tender, flavorful presence.

Ingredients:

• .5 or 1 lb fresh Dungeness crab meat (use more for cakes with higher crab meat content!)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Method:

1. Prep the Crab Mixture: In a large bowl, tenderly combine Dungeness crab meat with panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, finely chopped green onions, zest of lemon, smoked paprika, and a dash of salt and pepper. The goal is to blend these ingredients gently, preserving the crab's delicate texture.

2. Form the Patties: With a light touch, shape the mixture into patties. This is where the magic starts to take shape—each patty encapsulating the essence of the sea.

3. Cook to Perfection: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Lay the crab cakes in the pan, cooking until each side turns a golden hue, embodying the perfect crunch with a tender, flavorful interior.

Serve these crab cakes hot, accompanied by lemon wedges or a light aioli for an added zing. This dish is more than a meal; it's a culinary journey that celebrates the unparalleled quality and flavor of Dungeness crab. Through these crab cakes, we invite you to savor the fresh, sweet, and slightly smoky flavors—a true testament to the bounty of our local waters.