Crab Mousse
Crab mousse is a creamy, flavorful appetizer combining tender crab meat with a smooth gelatin base, accented by Worcestershire and hot sauce. Its elegant presentation makes it perfect for special occasions or entertaining guests who appreciate rich seafood flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve gelatin in cold water in the top of a double boiler.
- Meanwhile, heat water in the bottom of the double boiler.
- Add soup and cream cheese to gelatin; beat to remove lumps.
- Cook over hot water until smooth.
- Add Lea & Perrins, Tabasco sauce, and salt. Cook for 2 or 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Add finely chopped celery, grated onion, and crab meat.
- Pour into a 2-quart ring mold that has been sprayed with Pam cooking spray.
- Chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. If you're short on crab meat, consider substituting with shrimp or lobster for a different flavor. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra layer of freshness. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the Tabasco sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This crab mousse makes a delightful appetizer at parties. Serve it with crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or can be enjoyed as a light lunch alongside a bowl of Cream of Mushroom Soup. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow the mousse to come to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the texture; instead, serve it chilled or at room temp for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Mousse contains roughly 307 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 654mg per serving (28% 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 this crab mousse in advance?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just ensure it's well covered to maintain freshness. Chilling overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead appetizer for gatherings.
What can I use instead of crab meat?
If crab meat isn't available, you can substitute it with cooked shrimp, lobster, or even canned tuna. Each option will give a different flavor profile but will still deliver a tasty mousse. Adjust seasonings accordingly to complement your chosen seafood.
How do I know when the mousse is set?
The mousse is ready when it has firmed up and holds its shape. A gentle touch should indicate it is not jiggly, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Chilling for at least 4 hours is recommended for the best texture.
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).