Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe

by

If you’re a fan of crab cakes and crispy appetizers, these Crab Cake Egg Rolls will become your new favorite indulgence. Combining the rich flavors of crab meat with the satisfying crunch of an egg roll wrapper, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering fusion that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a snack, or treating yourself to a seafood-inspired dish, these egg rolls are sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Crab Cake Filling

  • 1 lb crabmeat
  • ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tbsp lemon juice

Additional Ingredients

  • 6 egg roll wrappers
  • ½ cup water (for sealing the egg rolls)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Cake Filling

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley until well combined.
  2. Gently fold in the crushed Ritz crackers and crabmeat, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
  3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow it to firm up, making it easier to handle while rolling.

Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls

  1. Lay the egg roll wrappers on a clean surface, positioning them like a diamond (points facing north, south, east, and west).
  2. Lightly brush the edges of the wrapper with water to help seal the egg rolls.
  3. Place about 3 ounces of the crab cake mixture in the center of the wrapper.
  4. Fold the bottom point (closest to you) over the filling, then fold in the left and right points. Roll the wrapper upward, cupping it gently with your hand to evenly distribute the crab cake mixture. Seal the top edge with a bit of water.
  5. The final egg roll should be about 4 inches in length.

Step 3: Cook the Egg Rolls

  1. Lightly spray the prepared egg rolls with cooking oil to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
  2. Place the egg rolls in an air fryer, ensuring there’s space between each roll for even cooking.
  3. Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping the egg rolls after 8 minutes.
  4. Once cooked, the egg rolls should be golden brown and crisp.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

  1. Allow the egg rolls to rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing them diagonally for presentation.
  2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as spicy aioli, sweet chili sauce, or lemon garlic butter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Unique Fusion: A creative twist on the classic crab cake that combines crunchy textures with savory seafood flavors.
  • Air Fryer Option: A healthier cooking method that still delivers crispy, golden results.
  • Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or main course.
  • Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or pair with various dipping sauces to suit your taste.

Tips for Perfect Crab Cake Egg Rolls

  1. Use Fresh Crab Meat: While canned or imitation crab works in a pinch, fresh crab meat offers the best flavor and texture.
  2. Prevent Soggy Wrappers: Ensure the filling is firm before rolling to avoid overloading the wrappers.
  3. Seal Tightly: Properly seal the edges with water to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
  4. Even Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches if needed for optimal crispiness.
  5. Dipping Sauce Pairing: Experiment with sauces like remoulade, tartar, or hot mustard for added flavor.

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the crab cake mixture for some heat.
  • Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey interior.
  • Asian-Inspired: Incorporate soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions into the crab mixture for an Asian twist.
  • Deep-Fried Option: For a traditional approach, deep fry the egg rolls in hot oil until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Crab Cake Egg Rolls with complementary sides and beverages for a complete meal:

  • Sides: Serve with a light salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.
  • Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine, a light beer, or a refreshing lemonade.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Freeze: Freeze uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

A Little History

Crab cakes are a staple in coastal cuisine, particularly in regions like Maryland, USA. Egg rolls, meanwhile, have roots in Asian culinary traditions. This creative recipe blends these two beloved dishes, showcasing the versatility of fusion cooking while maintaining the essence of each component.

Conclusion

Crab Cake Egg Rolls are the perfect blend of tradition and creativity, offering a deliciously crispy shell filled with rich, savory crab meat. Easy to prepare and versatile, they’re a show-stopping addition to any meal or gathering.

So gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and dive into the world of irresistible seafood appetizers!

Leave a Comment