Buttered Crab Meat
Buttered crab meat combines rich, creamy butter with delicate crab flavors, accented by wine, lemon, and nutmeg, making an elegant dish perfect for special occasions or seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine white wine, lemon juice, nutmeg, salt, and white pepper in a shallow pan and bring to a boil.
- Add crab meat and heat through just until warmed.
- Meanwhile, cream together butter, minced anchovy, and egg yolks.
- Gradually stir the creamed mixture into the crab mixture, ensuring it does not boil, and cook gently until thickened while stirring continuously.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve very hot in shells or in a chafing dish surrounded by sippets.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the crab mixture. If you don't have fresh crab meat, canned or frozen can be used, but ensure it’s well-drained. Adjust the nutmeg according to your taste preference, as it can easily overpower the delicate crab flavor. Pairing this dish with a light salad can balance its richness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served hot in the crab shells for a stunning presentation, or in a chafing dish surrounded by crispy sippets for dipping. A light side salad or steamed asparagus complements the richness beautifully. For a complete seafood experience, consider pairing it with Mr. L'S Croissants to soak up the delightful sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling. Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the texture of the crab meat. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttered Crab Meat contains roughly 1035 calories, with 39g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), iron (63% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1963mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen crab meat, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking. This will help maintain the dish's flavor and texture. Fresh crab meat is ideal, but frozen is a convenient alternative if fresh isn't available.
What can I serve alongside buttered crab meat?
A light salad or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments to buttered crab meat. You could also serve it with crusty bread or sippets to soak up the buttery sauce. For a more indulgent pairing, consider serving it with a glass of chilled white wine.
How do I know when the crab meat is heated through?
Crab meat is delicate and doesn’t need long to heat. It’s ready when it is just warmed through and no longer cold to the touch. Be careful not to overcook it, as this can lead to a rubbery texture. Stir gently to ensure even heating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).