Crab Smitty
Crab Smitty offers a savory blend of Maryland crabmeat with butter, lemon, and spices, topped with ham slices—perfect as an elegant appetizer or light main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove cartilage from crabmeat.
- Melt butter in skillet.
- Add crabmeat, lemon juice, salt, pepper, onion juice, hot pepper sauce, and thyme to the skillet.
- Saute briefly until crabmeat is just heated through.
- Cover and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until edges of ham curl and flavors are well-blended.
- Serve on toast if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier handling, ensure the crabmeat is completely free of cartilage. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the butter with olive oil or a buttery spread. Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to control the heat level, and feel free to add a dash of Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor. This dish can also be enhanced with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a refreshing touch.
Serving Suggestions
Crab Smitty is delicious served on toasted bread or crackers. Pair it with a light salad, such as Louisiana Salad, for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside a bowl of Crab Bisque (Low-Fat) for a delightful seafood meal. This dish works well as an appetizer or a main course, depending on portion size.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Crab Smitty in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crabmeat rubbery. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit more butter or a splash of lemon juice while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Smitty contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1747mg per serving (76% 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 a different type of crabmeat?
Yes, you can substitute Maryland backfin crabmeat with lump crabmeat or even canned crabmeat in a pinch. However, using fresh crabmeat will yield the best flavor and texture. Just ensure that any canned variety is well-drained and picked over for shells.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the spiciness, consider adding more liquid hot pepper sauce or incorporating diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. You could also experiment with different types of hot sauces to customize the heat level to your liking.
What can I serve with Crab Smitty?
Crab Smitty pairs beautifully with light accompaniments like a crisp salad or vegetable platter. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or garlic knots. It also complements other seafood recipes, making it a versatile dish for gatherings.
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).