Imperial Crab Meat
Imperial Crab Meat combines tender crab with a creamy sauce, fresh parsley, and savory seasonings, making it a delightful dish suitable for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute green pepper in butter until tender.
- Blend in flour and gradually add milk to make a smooth cream sauce.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Add egg to the mixture as it cools, stirring well.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, parsley, and crab meat, and blend gently.
- Pour into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the crab mixture. You can substitute the crab meat with shrimp or lobster for a different seafood twist. If you're looking for a lighter version, use low-fat milk and omit the butter. Make sure to sauté the green pepper until it's very tender to enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Imperial Crab Meat dish is delightful served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. It also pairs beautifully with Oven Fried Cod With Tartar Sauce for a seafood-themed meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it over rice or alongside crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat, as it may dry out the crab meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Imperial Crab Meat contains roughly 338 calories, with 23g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (204% of the Daily Value), iron (192% of the Daily Value), and potassium (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. At about 338 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, it's best to bake it just before serving to maintain the right texture.
What type of crab meat should I use?
You can use lump crab meat for a premium texture and flavor, or opt for backfin or claw meat for a more economical choice. Always check for freshness and ensure there are no shell fragments in the meat, as this can affect the eating experience.
Can I freeze the cooked dish?
Freezing is possible, but it may affect the texture of the crab meat. If you choose to freeze, ensure it's in an airtight container or freezer bag and consume within 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and be mindful that the texture may be softer after freezing.
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).