Crab cakes are a delightful treat, and when you combine them with egg rolls, it’s a match made in culinary heaven. My Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe has become a favorite in my household, not just for its amazing flavor but also for how fun it is to make. Each bite is a unique blend of rich crab meat, crispy veggies, and a crunchy exterior that leaves you wanting more.
Ingredients for Crab Cake Egg Rolls
Servings: 8 egg rolls
Crab Cake Ingredients:
- 1 lb lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for some heat)
Egg Roll Ingredients:
- 8 egg roll wrappers
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
How to Make Crab Cake Filling
Making the crab cake filling is a simple yet rewarding process. I always start by carefully picking through the crab meat to remove any shells.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Fold Gently: Mix everything gently to avoid breaking up the crab meat too much. You want to keep those lovely lumps for texture.
- Chill: Place the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to handle.
Preparing the Egg Rolls
Now that the crab filling is ready, it’s time to prepare the egg rolls. This part is where the fun begins!
- Lay Out the Wrapper: Take an egg roll wrapper and lay it on a clean, dry surface with one corner facing you.
- Add Filling: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of crab filling onto the bottom half of the wrapper. Don’t overfill; you want to make sure they roll up nicely.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold the sides in. Finally, roll it up tightly to seal. Use a little water on the edge to help it stick.
- Repeat: Continue this process until all the filling is used up.
Frying the Egg Rolls
Frying gives these egg rolls that extra crunch. It’s the step that transforms them into something truly special.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it bubbles and sizzles, it’s good to go.
- Fry in Batches: Carefully place a few egg rolls in the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Drain and Cool: Once cooked, remove the egg rolls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving Crab Cake Egg Rolls
These crab cake egg rolls are delicious on their own, but they can be even better with some dipping sauces.
- Dipping Sauces: I love pairing them with a tangy tartar sauce or a spicy remoulade. You can also go for a sweet chili sauce for a different twist.
- Presentation: Serve them on a platter with fresh lemon wedges and some chopped parsley for a pop of color. It makes the dish look as good as it tastes!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh.
- Refrigeration: Place the cooled egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 2-3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Freezing Egg Rolls for Later
I love making a big batch of these and freezing them for later. It’s a simple way to have a tasty snack or appetizer ready whenever I need it.
- Freeze Before Frying: Once you have filled and rolled the egg rolls, lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Store: After they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Cooking from Frozen: When you’re ready to eat, there’s no need to thaw. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations of Crab Cake Egg Rolls
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can mix things up based on your preferences.
- Veggie Additions: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, green onions, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese Lovers: If you love cheese, try adding some cream cheese or shredded cheddar to the filling for a rich, creamy bite.
- Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the crab mixture.
Perfect Pairings with Crab Cake Egg Rolls
These egg rolls are great for gatherings. They pair well with various beverages and side dishes.
- Beverage Pairings: A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp beer complements the flavors beautifully.
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside a fresh salad or some sweet potato fries for a well-rounded meal.
The Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe has been a delightful addition to my cooking repertoire. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer at a get-together or as a fun family dinner, these egg rolls never disappoint. With their crunchy exterior and delicious crab filling, I can’t help but go back for seconds. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do!