Crab Paste
Crab paste combines tender shrimp, fresh celery, and onion with tangy lemon and Tabasco for a flavorful spread perfect for crackers or sandwiches, appealing to seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean the small shrimp thoroughly.
- Cook the shrimp in boiling water with salt for 3 to 4 minutes, then drain and let cool.
- Grind the cooked shrimp, celery, and onion in a meat grinder or process in a food processor until finely chopped.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Tabasco, and salt to the mixture.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Chill the crab paste in the refrigerator for 24 hours before serving.
- Serve the crab paste on crackers or sandwiches.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the shrimp are finely ground. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more Tabasco or try a different hot sauce. You can substitute fresh lemon juice with lime juice for a slight twist. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can work as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor profile. Serve it chilled for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
This crab paste is delicious served on crackers or as a filling for sandwiches. Pair it with fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy contrast. It also goes well with a light salad or can be served alongside other seafood recipes like Scallops Sauteed In Garlic Butter for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in a microwave, but it's best served cold. Stir well before serving again to redistribute the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Paste contains roughly 73 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1612mg per serving (70% 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 shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before cooking. This will ensure that your crab paste maintains the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley. A splash of hot sauce can also add a nice kick. Experimenting with different spices can create a unique taste that suits your palate.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, you can use finely chopped mushrooms or artichokes as a base. Replace the shrimp with a plant-based seafood alternative for a similar texture, and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
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).