Air-Fryer Crab Cakes: A Quick, Crispy Treat?

Crab cakes are a delicious treat, but frying them can be messy and time-consuming. Luckily, air fryers provide a quick and easy alternative to frying, resulting in crab cakes that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Air-fried crab cakes are also healthier, as they require minimal oil, and there's less cleanup afterward. You can even cook frozen crab cakes in an air fryer! So, if you're looking for a tasty, hassle-free way to prepare crab cakes, using an air fryer is definitely worth considering.

Crab cake ingredients

Crab cakes are a delicious dish, but what ingredients are needed to make them? Here is a detailed list of ingredients to make crab cakes, with a specific focus on air fryer crab cakes.

Firstly, the star of the show and the main ingredient is the crab meat. It is important to use good-quality, fresh lump crab meat, which can be found in the seafood section of your local grocer. Jumbo lump crab meat is often preferred for crab cakes, but lump crab or backfin crab meat can also be used if jumbo lump is unavailable. It is important to note that imitation crab meat should never be used. Canned crab meat is also an option, but it is not as good as fresh or refrigerated crab meat.

The next key ingredient is a binder. This helps to hold the crab cakes together. Common options include eggs, mayonnaise, and mustard. Some recipes also include Worcestershire sauce, which adds a nice tang. Fresh parsley is also often included for a pop of colour and a fresh flavour.

To add some crunch to the crab cakes, breadcrumbs are typically used. Panko breadcrumbs are a popular choice, as they add a nice crispy texture. However, regular breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers can also be used.

For seasoning, Old Bay seasoning is a must-have for crab cakes. It is a traditional seasoning for seafood and adds a nice spice. In addition, salt and pepper can be added to taste.

Some recipes also include chopped vegetables such as celery, red bell peppers, and green onions. These add colour and texture to the crab cakes.

When making air fryer crab cakes, a non-stick cooking spray is also needed to ensure the crab cakes don't stick to the air fryer basket. Parchment paper or aluminium foil can also be used to line the air fryer basket for easier cleanup.

So, there you have it! A detailed list of ingredients to make delicious crab cakes, perfect for air frying.

Air fryer vs other cooking methods

Crab cakes are a delicious treat, and using an air fryer can be a quick and easy way to cook them. But how does an air fryer compare to other cooking methods?

Air Fryer vs Oven

The most obvious difference is size. An air fryer is a compact, countertop appliance, whereas an oven is a full-sized appliance. An air fryer can usually only cook one dish at a time, whereas an oven can handle multiple dishes or larger portions. An air fryer circulates heated air to cook and crisp up food, whereas a conventional, non-convection oven uses still air. However, some ovens do have air fry capabilities. Ovens are better suited to baking delicate items and recipes that use liquid batters. Air fryers are great for creating crispy textures, and some have a baking option.

Air Fryer vs Convection Oven

An air fryer can be thought of as a mini convection oven. Both use a fan to circulate heated air, but a convection oven has a much larger capacity. A convection oven is a powerful, multi-purpose appliance, with settings for roasting and dehydrating. A convection oven is ideal if you're cooking multiple dishes or need a larger capacity.

Air Fryer vs Toaster Oven

Air fryers and toaster ovens both offer countertop convenience, but toaster ovens tend to offer a wider range of functions, such as broiling, roasting and baking. Toaster ovens are unrivalled when it comes to toasting and reheating leftovers. However, air fryers are better for creating crispy textures on smaller portions.

Air Fryer vs Deep Fryer

Deep frying involves submerging food in hot oil or fat. Air frying achieves a similar result but without the use of oil, which can be unhealthy. A deep fryer is better for cooking large quantities, but an air fryer is a healthier option.

Air Fryer vs Microwave

Microwaves are unparalleled for convenience and speed, ideal for reheating or defrosting food. However, they are known for uneven cooking. Air fryers are slower but create a crispy exterior on smaller portions.

Air Fryer vs Slow Cooker

A slow cooker cooks food at a low temperature and requires liquid. An air fryer cooks without liquid and can fry, bake and roast.

Air Fryer vs Pressure Cooker

A pressure cooker is used for boiling, steaming and braising. It cannot air fry unless you have special accessories. An air fryer cannot pressure cook as it is not airtight.

So, there are several things to consider when comparing an air fryer to other cooking methods. If you're after quick, crispy results on smaller portions, an air fryer is a great option. But if you need to cook larger quantities or want a more versatile appliance, you might want to consider one of the alternatives.

How to make crab cakes in an air fryer

Crab cakes are a delicious treat, and an air fryer is an excellent way to cook them. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make crab cakes in an air fryer.

Ingredients:

• Crab meat (lump crab or jumbo lump crab meat)
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh parsley
• Old Bay seasoning
• Egg
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Salt and pepper (optional)
• Celery, red bell peppers (optional)

Method:

Start by finely chopping any additional ingredients you wish to include, such as red bell pepper, green onion, or celery. Then, in a large bowl, mix all the ingredients except the breadcrumbs. Gently form the mixture into 4 patties. Place them in the air fryer basket, and lightly spray the tops with oil.

Cooking:

Air fry the crab cakes at around 370-400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8-10 minutes. For a crispier exterior, spray the crab cakes with an olive oil spritzer or cooking spray before cooking. Serve with lemon wedges and a sauce of your choice, such as tartar sauce, aioli, or remoulade.

Tips:

• For gluten-free crab cakes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko crumbs.
• Don't overmix the batter, and shape the crab cakes with lightly wet hands to prevent sticking.
• If the batter is too thin, add a little extra panko, and if it's too thick, add milk or water.
• Chill the mixture before shaping the crab cakes to help them firm up and hold together better.
• Leave space between the crab cakes in the air fryer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Enjoy your delicious, golden, and crispy crab cakes!

How to store crab cakes

Crab cakes are a delicious treat, but what do you do when you have leftovers? Here's a detailed guide on how to store crab cakes to keep them fresh and tasty:

Storing Crab Cakes in the Refrigerator

Leftover crab cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure the container is sealed properly to prevent odours or moisture from affecting the cakes. Stored this way, crab cakes will stay fresh for up to four days, although some sources suggest they can last up to five days.

Storing Crab Cakes in the Freezer

If you want to keep your crab cakes for longer, freezing is a great option. To freeze crab cakes, place them on a tray and put them in the freezer until they are solid. Then, transfer the frozen cakes to a freezer-safe bag. Stored this way, crab cakes can last for up to six months in the freezer, although some sources suggest a duration of two to three months.

Reheating Crab Cakes

When you're ready to enjoy your crab cakes again, simply preheat your air fryer to 400°F and reheat the cakes for 2 to 3 minutes. You can also reheat them in a microwave for about a minute, or in the oven at 400F for 12-15 minutes.

What to serve with crab cakes

Crab cakes are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, light dinner, or even a surf-and-turf meal! Here are some ideas for what to serve with crab cakes:

Appetizers:

• Smoked salmon dip
• Whipped feta dip
• Mediterranean charcuterie board
• Steamed shrimp

Dinner Sides:

• Haricot verts
• Air fryer broccoli
• Cheesy potatoes
• Kale salad
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with Parmesan
• Spinach salad with peaches and pecans
• Roasted corn on the cob
• Succotash
• Baked zucchini fries
• Sweet potato fries
• Classic macaroni salad

Starches:

• Fried potatoes (french fries, home fries, etc.)
• Rice pilaf
• Brioche rolls

Salads:

• Light slaw
• Brussels sprout salad
• Frisee salad with a shallot vinaigrette
• Asparagus salad
• Roasted pepper-tomato salad with crispy black-eyed peas
• Spring salad with strawberries and bacon
• Marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad
• Tomato, peach, and corn salad
• Pineapple-pepper slaw

Sauces:

• Aioli
• Lemon wedge
• Tartar sauce
• Remoulade sauce
• Hollandaise sauce

Frequently asked questions