Crab Or Shrimp Mornay
Creamy crab or shrimp Mornay features rich cheese sauce with seafood, ideal for elegant appetizers or main courses that impress with flavor and sophistication.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add flour, cornstarch, and salt; stir until well blended.
- Gradually pour in consomme while on heat, stirring until it comes to a boil.
- Add milk gradually, stirring continuously.
- Bring the mixture to boiling point.
- Stir in slightly beaten egg yolks.
- Butter 8 shells or a baking dish.
- Cover the bottom with seafood (crab meat or shrimp).
- Pour sauce over seafood and sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Place in the oven or under the broiler to brown the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce. You can substitute the crab meat with lobster or even a mix of seafood for variety. If you're looking for a lighter version, use low-fat milk and cheese. Make sure to stir continuously when adding the milk to avoid lumps. This dish is reminiscent of Seafood recipes that showcase creamy textures.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crab or Shrimp Mornay hot from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. For a delightful seafood-themed dinner, consider serving it alongside Far East Crab Cakes or a light seafood pasta.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Mornay in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the seafood rubbery. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Or Shrimp Mornay contains roughly 1034 calories, with 18g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 551mg per serving (24% 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 or shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen crab meat or shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before adding them to the dish. This will help maintain the sauce's consistency and ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese works best in this dish?
A good melting cheese like Gruyère or a sharp cheddar works best for this Mornay sauce. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, but avoid those that don't melt well, like feta, to keep the texture creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and seafood mixture ahead of time. Just assemble everything in the baking dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you're ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).