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Baked Crab Popper Delights

Searching for a dish that’s both elegant and crowd-pleasing? Look no further than Baked Crab Popper Delights! This recipe brings the briny, buttery flavors of crab meat into bite-sized, crispy morsels that are perfect for appetizers or a light meal. Whether you’re serving them at a cocktail party or enjoying them as a snack, these poppers are sure to be a hit.
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Ingredients
  

  • p 150g lump crab meat (or imitation crab)
  • 1/2 cup 75g shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup 30g breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1/4 cup 60ml mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon 15ml lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1/4 cup 60ml milk
  • 1/2 cup 60g flour

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Crab Meat
  • Pick through the crab meat to remove any shells or cartilage. Place it in a mixing bowl.
  • Mix the Filling
  • Add the shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined. Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Form the Popper Balls
  • Form the mixture into small, evenly sized balls, about the size of a golf ball.
  • Prepare the Coating
  • In a wide bowl, beat the egg and mix with milk. In another bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt.
  • Coat the Popper Balls
  • Dip each ball into the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
  • Bake
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the coated popper balls on it. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve and Enjoy
  • Let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
  • What to Serve with Baked Crab Popper Delights
  • While these poppers are delicious on their own, they pair beautifully with a variety of complementary dishes and drinks.
  • Crudités and Dip: Serve them alongside a fresh veggie platter and a light aioli dip for a balanced appetizer spread.
  • Garlic Butter Rice: For a heartier meal, serve them with saffron-infused rice drizzled with garlic butter.
  • Sparkling Lemonade or Rosé: A refreshing drink to complement the rich seafood flavors.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Baked Crab Popper Delights
  • Crab Meat Selection: For the best flavor, opt for fresh lump crab meat. If you can’t find fresh, frozen is a great alternative.
  • Crunch Factor: For extra crispy poppers, dredge them twice in the flour mixture for a thicker coating.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Add a tad of hot sauce or paprika for an extra dimension of flavor.
  • Storing and Reheating Tips
  • Storage: Allow the poppers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
  • Reheating: Reheat frozen poppers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
  • Final Thoughts
  • Baked Crab Popper Delights are a testament to the beauty of simplicity—flavorful, fresh, and easy to make. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them solo, these bites promise a delightful experience.
  • So, why not give them a try? With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be on your way to a delicious, satisfying meal in no time.