Deviled Crab

Deviled Crab
Deviled Crab
In his cookbook, John Martin Taylor suggests baking and serving deviled crabmeat in crab backs (shells). Since most people purchase crabmeat already picked from the shell, we baked our deviled crab in store-bought scallop shells instead. Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 50 min
  • Preparing Time: -
  • Total Time: -
  • Served Person: Makes 8 first-course servings
American Shellfish Appetizer Bake Quick & Easy Crab Winter Gourmet
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter

A Taste of the Sea: My Deviled Crab Delight

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and impressive meal can feel like a Herculean task. But sometimes, the simplest recipes offer the most rewarding results. This deviled crab recipe is a perfect example. It's elegant enough for a dinner party, yet quick and easy enough for a weeknight supper. I discovered this recipe while browsing through an old cookbook, and it's become a staple in my kitchen.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The delicate sweetness of the crab meat is perfectly complemented by the subtle spice of cayenne and the richness of butter. The crispy saltines add a lovely textural contrast, and the hint of Sherry adds a sophisticated touch. The entire process takes less than an hour, from start to finish, which makes it ideal for those busy evenings when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen but still crave something special. I often serve this with a simple side salad and some crusty bread – a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper. I've even experimented with different types of crackers – Ritz crackers work well as a substitute if you can't find saltines. The possibilities are endless! The best part? The cleanup is minimal – just a few dishes to wash, which is a huge bonus after a long day.

This deviled crab recipe has become more than just a dish; it’s a reminder to myself to take time for myself and my family. It's a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's about savoring the simple pleasures of life, and for me, that includes sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. The aroma filling my kitchen as it bakes is enough to lift my spirits after a long day. The satisfied smiles on my family's faces when they take their first bite – that's the true reward. It's a recipe that brings joy, and that's what makes it truly special.

So, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious seafood dish, look no further. This deviled crab recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen, whether you're entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home. Give it a try – you won't be disappointed!

Step-by-step

    • Preheat oven to 350°F.
    • Melt butter in a 10-inch heavy skillet over moderate heat until foam subsides, then cook onion and celery, stirring, until softened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
    • Gently toss crab with lemon juice.
    • Coarsely crush saltines with your hands in a large bowl. Stir in onion mixture, Sherry, cayenne, and salt, then fold in crab.
    • Divide among scallop shells and bake in middle of oven until lightly browned, about 20 minutes.