Crab cakes are a delicious and versatile seafood dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer them baked, grilled, or fried, crab cakes make a wonderful addition to any meal. However, if you’re short on time or just looking for a quick and easy way to prepare them, cooking premade crab cakes on the stove is a simple and convenient option.
Cooking premade crab cakes on the stove is a great way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood in the comfort of your own home. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time. So, if you’re ready to learn how to cook premade crab cakes on the stove, let’s dive in!
Choosing the right cookware for stove-top crab cake cooking
If you have some leftover premade crab cakes in your fridge and want to whip up a quick and tasty weeknight meal, you can easily cook them on the stove. However, it is essential to choose the right cookware to ensure that the crab cakes cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
Firstly, a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan is best for cooking crab cakes on the stove. Non-stick surfaces prevent the crab cakes from sticking to the pan, and cast iron pans retain heat and distribute it evenly, ensuring the crab cakes cook thoroughly. Avoid using aluminum or ceramic pans, which do not conduct heat as well as cast iron or stainless steel.
Secondly, make sure to choose the right size of cookware that can accommodate all the crab cakes with some space between them. Overcrowding the pan will result in steaming the crab cakes instead of frying, leading to a soggy texture and uneven cooking. With the right cookware in hand, cooking premade crab cakes on the stove becomes a breeze.
Preparing the crab cakes for cooking on the stove
Before you start cooking the premade crab cakes on the stove, you must first prepare them properly. Here’s how:
1. Take the crab cakes out of the refrigerator and let them sit for at least 15 minutes. This will bring them to room temperature and ensure that they cook evenly.
2. Meanwhile, brush a thin layer of oil or butter on a non-stick pan or skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. You can also use a griddle or a grill pan for added flavor and texture.
3. Once the pan is hot, gently place the crab cakes on it, leaving enough space between them so that they don’t stick together. Use a spatula to press down lightly on each crab cake to flatten it and promote even cooking.
4. Cook the crab cakes for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan and flipping the crab cakes too often as this can cause them to break or lose their shape. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Stove-top crab cake cooking techniques – pan-frying vs. baking
When it comes to cooking premade crab cakes on the stove, there are two main techniques that you can go for: pan-frying and baking. Pan-frying is a quick and easy method that yields crispy and golden-brown crab cakes. To do this, heat up a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and then add your pre-made crab cakes. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked and evenly browned.
Baking, on the other hand, is a healthier and more hands-off option that still ensures a perfectly cooked crab cake. To do this, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Whichever cooking technique you choose, make sure to let the crab cakes rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure that they stay together and have a crispy outer layer.
Getting the perfect sear on your crab cakes with the stove-top method
Getting the perfect sear on your crab cakes is crucial for a delicious and appetizing meal. The stove-top method is ideal for those who don’t want to use the oven or grill. To get started, heat a small amount of oil or butter in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, place the premade crab cakes in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
It’s important to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the crab cakes to steam rather than sear. If the pan is too small, cook the crab cakes in batches. You can also use a splatter screen to prevent oil splatters. Once the crab cakes are seared, use a spatula to remove them from the pan and onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as rice or grilled vegetables, for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Avoiding common mistakes when cooking crab cakes on the stove
It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking pre-made crab cakes on the stove. The most common mistake is using too much oil or using the wrong kind of oil. This can result in soggy or greasy crab cakes. To avoid this mistake, use a non-stick pan and a small amount of vegetable oil.
Another common mistake is overcooking the crab cakes. Overcooking can dry out the crab cakes and make them tough. To avoid this mistake, cook the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. It’s also important to make sure the pan is not too hot. A medium-low heat setting will ensure that the crab cakes cook evenly and don’t burn. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy perfectly cooked crab cakes that are crispy on the outside and moist and flavorful on the inside.
Serving suggestions for stove-top cooked crab cakes
Serving Suggestions for Stove-top Cooked Crab Cakes
Once you’ve cooked your crab cakes to perfection on the stove-top, it’s important to pair them with the right sides and garnishes to create a delicious and satisfying meal. One classic serving suggestion is to pair your crab cakes with a creamy sauce such as hollandaise sauce or tartar sauce. You can also serve them with a spicy aioli or a tangy lemon butter sauce.
When it comes to side dishes, there are several options to choose from. A simple garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing accompaniment to the richness of the crab cakes. Other popular choices include roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus or green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, or lemon rice. For a slightly more indulgent meal, pair your crab cakes with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or onion rings. With the right serving suggestions, cooking premade crab cakes on the stove can be a delicious and easy meal option.
Tips for storing and reheating premade crab cakes for future use
Tips for storing and reheating premade crab cakes for future use:
1. Storing – Make sure to choose an appropriate container that will not allow the crab cakes to dry out or become too moist. Wrap each crab cake individually with plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container.
2. Reheating – There are a variety of ways to reheat crab cakes, but the most common method is to bake them in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can heat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Avoid microwaving as this can make the crab cakes chewy. Serve with your favorite sauce and enjoy!
Verdict
Cooking premade crab cakes on the stove is a simple and quick process that can result in a delicious meal. Whether you choose to fry them or sauté them, the key is to heat them evenly and thoroughly to ensure that they are cooked all the way through. By using a non-stick pan and a minimal amount of oil, you can create a crispy exterior and a moist, tender interior that showcases the flavors of the crab meat.
Overall, cooking premade crab cakes on the stove is a great option for anyone looking for a quick and easy seafood meal. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious homemade meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. So, next time you’re looking for a tasty and convenient dinner option, give crab cakes on the stove a try!