Crab Cake Egg Rolls

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crab Cake Filling

Start by sautéing the chopped onion in a tablespoon of butter over medium heat until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Let the onions cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, egg, fresh parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much. You want to maintain those large, tender chunks of crab.

2. Form the Crab Cake Filling

Take small portions of the crab mixture and shape them into small logs or cylinders, about the size of a traditional egg roll. This step will make it easier to roll the crab cakes into the egg roll wrappers later.

3. Assemble the Egg Rolls

Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, with one of the corners facing you (like a diamond shape). Place a crab cake log in the center of the wrapper. Fold in the two sides and then roll up the egg roll tightly, sealing the edge with a dab of water to ensure it stays closed. Repeat this process until all the crab cake filling is used up.

4. Fry the Crab Cake Egg Rolls

Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it browns in 30 seconds, the oil is hot enough. Carefully add the egg rolls to the oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the crab cake egg rolls have cooled slightly, cut them in half on the diagonal for a beautiful presentation. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chili sauce or tartar sauce, for added flavor. These egg rolls make for the perfect appetizer or snack that everyone will enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Use Fresh Crab Meat: For the best flavor, try to use fresh crab meat. If that’s not available, canned or frozen crab meat will work fine too, but be sure to drain it well.
• Don’t Overfill: When assembling the egg rolls, don’t overstuff them. This can cause them to break open while frying. A little filling goes a long way!
• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying the egg rolls. Fry them in batches so that they cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Bake Option: If you prefer to bake your egg rolls instead of frying, brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

Crab Cake Egg Rolls are perfect for a variety of occasions. They work well as a stand-alone appetizer, paired with a crisp salad, or served as a party snack with a variety of dipping sauces. If you’re looking to elevate the dish even further, serve them alongside a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail for a touch of elegance.

Conclusion:

Crab Cake Egg Rolls are a fantastic fusion of two classic favorites, and they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or meal. With their crispy exterior, savory crab filling, and easy-to-make approach, these egg rolls offer a delightful twist on a traditional crab cake. They are fun, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe out the next time you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a delicious, indulgent snack!