Buttered Crab
Buttered Crab is a rich, flavorful dish combining tender crab meat with a savory wine and anchovy sauce, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a luxurious yet simple meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mash the anchovy fillets and work in the bread crumbs and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Add the white wine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture gently to the boil in a saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Flake the meat from the crabs and mix with the melted butter.
- Add the crab meat and butter mixture to the hot wine mixture.
- Cook gently for 4 minutes, then serve on a hot dish surrounded by strips of buttered toast.
- Serve with a side salad of your choice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or shallots to the butter mixture. If fresh crabs are unavailable, high-quality canned crab meat can be a great substitute. To enhance the dish, you might also try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Ensure your bread crumbs are fine for a smoother mixture, and don't skimp on the melted butter for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Buttered Crab immediately after cooking for the best flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or some sautéed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a baked potato or a light pasta dish. A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors well, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Buttered Crab can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the crab meat, making it tough. Serve it hot over fresh toast or with a salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttered Crab contains roughly 718 calories, with 10g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 it's essential to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the dish. If using frozen, look for high-quality options to ensure the best results.
What type of white wine works best in this recipe?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, works best in this recipe. These wines provide acidity that balances the richness of the butter and crab. Avoid sweet wines, as they can overpower the dish's delicate flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While Buttered Crab is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the crab meat and the wine mixture ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, and combine just before serving. This allows for easier preparation while keeping flavors intact.
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).