Cherub Crab Croquettes
Delightful crab croquettes featuring tender backfin crab meat, fresh herbs, and a tangy lemon flavor, perfect as an appetizer or elegant snack for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a small pan; add the flour and cook over low heat.
- Add the milk and cook until the mixture thickens; set aside.
- Mix the crab meat with the parsley, onion, lemon juice, 2 eggs, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, hot pepper sauce, and dry mustard.
- Add the cooled cream sauce to the crab mixture and shape into 3-inch long croquettes.
- Beat 3 eggs and salt together in a bowl.
- Dip each croquette in bread crumbs, then in beaten eggs, and then in bread crumbs again.
- Fry in deep fat at 375°F until brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half for the milk. If you don’t have fresh crab meat, canned crab can work in a pinch, but drain it well. When frying, ensure the oil is hot enough to prevent the croquettes from absorbing too much oil, which can make them greasy. For added flavor, try mixing in Old Bay seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the croquettes with a zesty remoulade or a tangy tartar sauce for dipping. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad and a citrus vinaigrette for a light meal. Consider complementing with sides like roasted vegetables or a simple rice pilaf to round out the dish. For a special occasion, serve alongside Baked Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherub Crab Croquettes contains roughly 290 calories, with 9g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 897mg per serving (39% 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 make the croquettes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the croquettes and refrigerate them before frying. Just ensure they are well-coated in breadcrumbs to prevent sticking. Fry them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil. These oils fry well without imparting strong flavors to the croquettes, allowing the crab's delicate taste to shine through.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the croquettes for a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 400°F, place the croquettes on a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
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).