Crab Cake Egg Rolls are a creative and mouthwatering twist on traditional crab cakes, wrapped up in a crispy egg roll shell. The savory flavors of tender crab meat combined with classic seasonings make these egg rolls a perfect appetizer or party snack. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce, like spicy aioli or remoulade, to add an extra layer of flavor that will leave your guests coming back for more. Easy to make and packed with flavor, these crab cake egg rolls are sure to impress!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Crab Cake Filling
- 1 lb lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
For the Egg Rolls
- 10-12 egg roll wrappers
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Crab Cake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and green onion. Gently mix until well combined, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape). Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the crab cake mixture into the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly, sealing the top corner with a bit of water. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully add the egg rolls to the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove the egg rolls with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, hot sauce (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Serve the crab cake egg rolls hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Perfect Crab Cake Egg Rolls
- Don’t Overfill the Wrappers: Overfilling can cause the egg rolls to burst while frying. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per egg roll to ensure they seal properly.
- Seal Tightly: Make sure to seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers tightly with water to prevent them from opening while frying.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Maintaining an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) is crucial for achieving crispy, golden egg rolls without them absorbing too much oil. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at the right temperature.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Crab Cake Egg Rolls: Add finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crab cake mixture for an extra kick.
- Baked Crab Cake Egg Rolls: For a lighter version, brush the assembled egg rolls with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Cheesy Crab Cake Egg Rolls: Add 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the crab cake filling for a cheesy twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned crab meat for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use canned crab meat, but fresh lump crab meat will provide the best flavor and texture. Be sure to drain and pick through it to remove any shells.
Q: Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage and fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover crab cake egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy.
Crab Cake Egg Rolls are a delicious fusion of classic crab cakes and crispy egg rolls, making them an irresistible appetizer or snack. With tender, flavorful crab filling and a golden, crunchy exterior, these egg rolls are perfect for parties or as a special treat for yourself. Serve them with a tangy dipping sauce, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering, and impress your guests with this fun and flavorful dish!