When it comes to crab cakes, two popular styles often come to mind: Boardwalk style and Maryland style. While both types of crab cakes are delicious and sought after, they have distinct differences in terms of ingredients, preparation, and overall flavor profile. In this article, we will delve into the world of crab cakes and explore the differences between these two beloved styles.
Introduction to Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a popular seafood dish that originated in the United States, particularly in the coastal regions of the East Coast. They are made from a mixture of crab meat, breadcrumbs, spices, and other ingredients, which are then formed into patties and cooked until golden brown. Crab cakes can be served as an appetizer, main course, or snack, and they are often associated with summer vacations and beachside eateries.
History of Crab Cakes
The history of crab cakes dates back to the early 19th century, when crab was a staple ingredient in many coastal communities. The original crab cakes were made with fresh crab meat, breadcrumbs, and spices, and were often served as a simple, yet satisfying meal. Over time, different regions developed their own unique styles of crab cakes, with the Boardwalk style and Maryland style being two of the most well-known.
Regional Influences
The Boardwalk style of crab cakes originated in the coastal towns of New Jersey, where crab was abundant and affordable. This style of crab cake is characterized by its heavy use of filler ingredients, such as breadcrumbs and mayonnaise, which help to bind the crab meat together. The Maryland style, on the other hand, originated in the Chesapeake Bay region, where blue crabs are plentiful. This style of crab cake is known for its emphasis on fresh, jumbo lump crab meat, and its light, delicate flavor.
Boardwalk Style Crab Cakes
Boardwalk style crab cakes are a popular variation of crab cakes that originated in the coastal towns of New Jersey. They are characterized by their heavy use of filler ingredients, such as breadcrumbs and mayonnaise, which help to bind the crab meat together. This style of crab cake is often denser and more filling-heavy than the Maryland style, and it may contain a higher proportion of breadcrumbs and other filler ingredients.
Ingredients and Preparation
Boardwalk style crab cakes typically contain a mixture of crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, and spices. The crab meat is often claw meat or a combination of claw and body meat, which is less expensive than jumbo lump crab meat. The breadcrumbs help to bind the crab meat together and add texture to the cake. The mayonnaise and mustard add moisture and flavor to the cake, while the spices provide a savory, slightly sweet flavor.
Cooking Methods
Boardwalk style crab cakes can be cooked in a variety of ways, including pan-frying, deep-frying, and baking. Pan-frying is a popular method, as it allows the crab cakes to develop a crispy, golden-brown crust on the outside, while remaining tender and moist on the inside. Deep-frying is also a common method, as it produces a crispy, crunchy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Baking is a healthier alternative, as it eliminates the need for added oil and produces a lighter, more delicate flavor.
Maryland Style Crab Cakes
Maryland style crab cakes are a beloved variation of crab cakes that originated in the Chesapeake Bay region. They are characterized by their emphasis on fresh, jumbo lump crab meat, and their light, delicate flavor. This style of crab cake is often more expensive than the Boardwalk style, as it requires high-quality, jumbo lump crab meat.
Ingredients and Preparation
Maryland style crab cakes typically contain a mixture of jumbo lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, and spices. The jumbo lump crab meat is the star of the show, providing a sweet, tender flavor and a delicate texture. The breadcrumbs are used sparingly, as they can overpower the flavor of the crab meat. The mayonnaise and mustard add moisture and flavor to the cake, while the spices provide a subtle, slightly sweet flavor.
Cooking Methods
Maryland style crab cakes can be cooked in a variety of ways, including pan-frying, broiling, and baking. Pan-frying is a popular method, as it allows the crab cakes to develop a crispy, golden-brown crust on the outside, while remaining tender and moist on the inside. Broiling is also a common method, as it produces a crispy, caramelized crust and a tender, juicy interior. Baking is a healthier alternative, as it eliminates the need for added oil and produces a lighter, more delicate flavor.
Comparison of Boardwalk Style and Maryland Style Crab Cakes
While both Boardwalk style and Maryland style crab cakes are delicious and popular, they have distinct differences in terms of ingredients, preparation, and overall flavor profile. The Boardwalk style is characterized by its heavy use of filler ingredients, such as breadcrumbs and mayonnaise, which help to bind the crab meat together. The Maryland style, on the other hand, is known for its emphasis on fresh, jumbo lump crab meat, and its light, delicate flavor.
Key Differences
Some of the key differences between Boardwalk style and Maryland style crab cakes include:
- Crab meat: Maryland style crab cakes use fresh, jumbo lump crab meat, while Boardwalk style crab cakes may use claw meat or a combination of claw and body meat.
- Filler ingredients: Boardwalk style crab cakes contain a higher proportion of filler ingredients, such as breadcrumbs and mayonnaise, which help to bind the crab meat together. Maryland style crab cakes use fewer filler ingredients, allowing the natural flavor of the crab meat to shine through.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between Boardwalk style and Maryland style crab cakes is a matter of personal preference. If you prefer a denser, more filling-heavy crab cake with a heavier use of breadcrumbs and mayonnaise, then the Boardwalk style may be the better choice. If you prefer a lighter, more delicate crab cake with an emphasis on fresh, jumbo lump crab meat, then the Maryland style may be the better choice. Ultimately, the key to a great crab cake is the quality of the ingredients and the care with which it is prepared. Whether you choose Boardwalk style or Maryland style, be sure to use the freshest ingredients and to cook the crab cakes with love and care, and you will be sure to enjoy a delicious and satisfying seafood dish.
What are the main differences between Boardwalk Style and Maryland Style crab cakes?
The main differences between Boardwalk Style and Maryland Style crab cakes lie in their ingredients, texture, and flavor profiles. Boardwalk Style crab cakes are known for their heavier filler content, which can include breadcrumbs, crackers, or even grains like rice or cornmeal. This filling helps to bind the crab cake together and provides a more substantial bite. In contrast, Maryland Style crab cakes are famous for their minimal use of fillers, relying instead on the freshness and quality of the crab meat to shine through. This approach allows the delicate flavor and texture of the crab to take center stage.
As a result of these differences, the two styles of crab cakes have distinct textures and flavors. Boardwalk Style crab cakes tend to be denser and heavier, with a more uniform texture that is often associated with a crunchier exterior and a softer interior. Maryland Style crab cakes, on the other hand, are typically lighter and more delicate, with a loose, flaky texture that is highly prized by crab connoisseurs. The flavor profiles of the two styles also differ, with Boardwalk Style crab cakes often featuring a more robust, savory taste and Maryland Style crab cakes showcasing a brighter, more acidic flavor that is often enhanced with ingredients like lemon juice or Old Bay seasoning.
What type of crab meat is typically used in Maryland Style crab cakes?
Maryland Style crab cakes are typically made with jumbo lump or backfin crab meat, which is harvested from the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus). This type of crab meat is prized for its sweet, tender flavor and firm texture, which makes it ideal for crab cakes. The jumbo lump crab meat is particularly coveted for its large, intact lumps of crab meat, which provide a luxurious texture and a rich, buttery flavor. Backfin crab meat, on the other hand, is a blend of smaller lumps and flakes of crab meat that is also highly flavorful and tender.
The use of high-quality crab meat is essential to the success of Maryland Style crab cakes, as it provides the foundation for the dish’s flavor and texture. To preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the crab meat, Maryland Style crab cake recipes often call for minimal processing and handling of the crab meat. This can include gently folding the crab meat into the other ingredients, rather than overmixing or breaking up the lumps of crab meat. By handling the crab meat with care and respect, chefs and home cooks can create Maryland Style crab cakes that are truly exceptional and worthy of the state’s culinary heritage.
Can I make Boardwalk Style crab cakes at home?
Yes, you can make Boardwalk Style crab cakes at home, and it’s relatively easy to do so. To start, you’ll need to gather the necessary ingredients, including crab meat, breadcrumbs or crackers, mayonnaise or other binder, and any desired seasonings or spices. You can use either fresh or pasteurized crab meat, although fresh crab meat will generally yield better results. Once you have your ingredients, simply mix them together in a bowl until they’re just combined, being careful not to overmix the mixture.
To form the crab cakes, use your hands to shape the mixture into patties, and then coat them lightly with additional breadcrumbs or crackers. You can then pan-fry the crab cakes in oil until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through on the inside. Alternatively, you can bake the crab cakes in a preheated oven until they’re cooked through and lightly browned on top. Either way, be sure to serve the crab cakes hot, garnished with lemon wedges and tartar sauce or other condiments of your choice.
How do I know if my crab cakes are fresh and of high quality?
To determine if your crab cakes are fresh and of high quality, look for several key indicators. First, check the color and texture of the crab meat, which should be a vibrant white or off-white color and have a firm, flaky texture. Avoid crab cakes with grayish or soft, mushy crab meat, as these can be signs of old or low-quality ingredients. You should also check the ingredient list and look for minimal fillers and no artificial preservatives or additives.
In terms of flavor and aroma, fresh and high-quality crab cakes should have a sweet, seafood-like aroma and a bright, snappy flavor that is free of any strong “fishy” or off-flavors. When you take a bite of the crab cake, it should have a delicate, tender texture that is neither too dense nor too crumbly. If the crab cake is overly heavy or dry, it may be a sign of too much filler or overcooking. By being mindful of these factors, you can ensure that your crab cakes are fresh, delicious, and of the highest quality.
What are some common seasonings and spices used in Maryland Style crab cakes?
Some common seasonings and spices used in Maryland Style crab cakes include Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Old Bay seasoning is a proprietary blend of herbs and spices that is particularly popular in the Mid-Atlantic region, and it adds a distinctive flavor to crab cakes that is both savory and slightly sweet. Worcestershire sauce, on the other hand, provides a tangy, umami flavor that complements the richness of the crab meat. Lemon juice and hot sauce can be used to add a bright, citrusy flavor and a touch of heat to the crab cakes.
In addition to these seasonings, some recipes may also call for other ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or celery, which add flavor and texture to the crab cakes. However, it’s worth noting that traditional Maryland Style crab cakes tend to be relatively simple and unadorned, with a focus on showcasing the freshness and quality of the crab meat. As such, the seasoning blend is often kept straightforward and uncomplicated, with an emphasis on allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. By using a light hand when seasoning the crab cakes, you can create a dish that is both flavorful and authentic.
Can I freeze crab cakes for later use?
Yes, you can freeze crab cakes for later use, although it’s generally best to freeze them before cooking rather than after. To freeze uncooked crab cakes, simply shape the mixture into patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, put the baking sheet in the freezer until the crab cakes are frozen solid, at which point you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for longer-term storage. When you’re ready to cook the crab cakes, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then cook them according to your recipe.
It’s worth noting that freezing crab cakes can affect their texture and flavor, particularly if they’re frozen for an extended period. To minimize these effects, be sure to use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and other forms of damage. You should also try to use frozen crab cakes within a few months, as they can become less fresh and flavorful over time. By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious crab cakes year-round, even when fresh crab meat is out of season. Simply thaw and cook the frozen crab cakes according to your recipe, and serve them hot with your favorite condiments and sides.