crab cakes philadelphia

Crab Cakes in Philadelphia: A Culinary Delight

Crab cakes are a beloved seafood dish, and Philadelphia offers a variety of options, from traditional preparations to innovative twists. With a rich maritime history and access to fresh seafood, the city boasts a competitive crab cake scene.

The Allure of Philadelphia Crab Cakes

Philadelphia’s proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, a prime source of blue crabs, undoubtedly contributes to the city’s crab cake popularity. The freshness and quality of the crab meat are paramount. Restaurants often vie for the title of “best crab cake,” with each establishment having its own secret recipe and preparation method. The best versions emphasize the sweet, delicate flavor of the crab, allowing it to shine through with minimal fillers.

What Makes a Great Crab Cake?

Several factors contribute to a truly exceptional crab cake.

* **High-Quality Crab Meat:** Lump crab meat, consisting of large, unbroken pieces of crab from the body, is generally considered the gold standard.
* **Minimal Fillers:** Excessive breadcrumbs, crackers, or other fillers detract from the crab’s flavor and texture. A good crab cake uses just enough binding to hold it together.
* **Seasoning Balance:** A subtle blend of seasonings – often including Old Bay, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs – enhances the crab’s natural sweetness without overpowering it. Learn more about crab and crab meat composition on Wikipedia.
* **Cooking Method:** Crab cakes can be baked, broiled, pan-fried, or deep-fried. The ideal method achieves a golden-brown crust while keeping the interior moist and tender.

Where to Find the Best Crab Cakes in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has numerous restaurants that offer excellent crab cakes. Some notable options include:

* **Reading Terminal Market:** Several vendors within the market serve up delicious crab cakes.
* **Seafood Restaurants:** Many established seafood restaurants throughout the city feature crab cakes on their menus, often with unique twists on the classic recipe.
* **Pubs and Taverns:** Don’t overlook the local pubs! Many offer surprisingly good crab cakes as a popular appetizer.

How to Make Crab Cakes at Home

While enjoying crab cakes at a restaurant is a treat, making them at home is also an option. Here’s a basic recipe outline:

1. Combine lump crab meat with a small amount of breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Gently form the mixture into patties.
3. Pan-fry or bake the crab cakes until golden brown and heated through.
4. Serve with tartar sauce, remoulade, or a squeeze of lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of crab meat for crab cakes?

Lump crab meat is generally considered the best due to its large, unbroken pieces and sweet flavor.

What are some common ingredients in crab cake filler?

Common fillers include breadcrumbs, cracker crumbs, mayonnaise, eggs, and sometimes vegetables like peppers or onions.

What is the best way to cook crab cakes?

Pan-frying and baking are both popular methods. Pan-frying creates a crispy exterior, while baking is a healthier option.

What sauce is traditionally served with crab cakes?

Tartar sauce and remoulade are the most common accompaniments, but some people also enjoy them with cocktail sauce or a simple squeeze of lemon.

Can you freeze crab cakes?

Yes, crab cakes can be frozen before or after cooking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in an airtight container.

Summary

Philadelphia’s crab cake scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the city’s culinary prowess and access to fresh seafood. Whether you’re dining at a renowned restaurant or crafting your own at home, the key to a delicious crab cake is high-quality crab meat, minimal fillers, and balanced seasoning. With so many options available, exploring the city’s crab cake offerings is a worthwhile culinary adventure.