Crab cakes are a popular seafood dish made from crab meat, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings. One cake weighing 60.0 grams contains approximately 160 calories.
In addition to crab, some common ingredients in crab cakes include mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Breadcrumbs are also used to bind the ingredients together and create a crispy outer layer.
If you're looking for a tasty and nutritious seafood option, crab cakes can be a great choice. However, it's important to be aware of their calorie and fat content and prepare them in a healthy way. Let's explore some tips and information about crab cakes.
What is a crab cake?
Crab cakes are a popular seafood dish that can be found on menus in coastal areas and restaurants across the country. They are typically made from fresh or canned crab meat, which is mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. The ingredients are formed into patties and either baked or fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Crab cakes are often served with a side of tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or cocktail sauce. Crab cakes can be enjoyed as a main course, an appetizer, or even as a sandwich filling. They are a versatile and delicious seafood option that can be served in many different ways.
Ingredients in a Crab Cake
The main ingredient in a crab cake is, of course, crab meat. The meat is typically mixed with breadcrumbs and eggs to create a binding agent that holds everything together. Additional ingredients may include mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. These ingredients add flavor and texture to the crab cake. When making crab cakes, it's important to choose high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture. Fresh crab meat is preferred, but canned crab meat can also be used in a pinch.
How many calories does a crab cake contain?
Crab cakes are a relatively high-calorie food, with a 60.0 gram cake containing approximately 160 calories. This amount may vary depending on the ingredients used and the cooking method. In addition to calories, crab cakes are also high in fat and cholesterol. It's important to enjoy them in moderation and balance them with other healthy foods. If you're watching your calorie intake, consider making smaller crab cakes or choosing a lower-fat cooking method like baking instead of frying.
How to prepare a crab cake?
Preparing a crab cake is relatively simple. First, mix crab meat with breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to combine the ingredients until they are evenly mixed. Next, form the mixture into patties of your desired size. Heat oil in a pan and add the patties, cooking for several minutes until crispy and brown. For a healthier option, consider baking the crab cakes in the oven instead of frying them. Simply place the patties on a baking sheet and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Benefits of eating a crab cake
Eating crab cakes can have a number of health benefits. For one, they are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Crab meat is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. In addition, crab meat contains important nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc. Overall, crab cakes can be a nutritious and delicious addition to your diet. Just be sure to enjoy them in moderation and balance them with other healthy foods.
Nutrition facts of a crab cake
Here are the nutrition facts for a typical 60.0 gram crab cake: - calories: 160 - Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 5 g
Potential health risks of crab cakes
While crab cakes can be a healthy and nutritious food choice when enjoyed in moderation, they do have some potential health risks. For one, crab cakes are high in fat and cholesterol, which can increase your risk of heart disease and other health problems if consumed in excess. They can also be high in sodium, especially if made with canned crab meat or seasoning mixes. If you have high cholesterol, heart disease, or other health concerns, it's a good idea to limit your intake of crab cakes and other high-fat, high-cholesterol foods.
How to maintain the freshness of crab cakes?
If you have leftover crab cakes, it's important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. To do so, simply place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze your crab cakes for later use, wrap each cake individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Different ways to eat crab cakes
Crab cakes are a versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They make a delicious main course when served with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a salad. Additionally, crab cakes can be served as a tasty appetizer or hors d'oeuvre, especially when served with a variety of dipping sauces like tartar sauce, aioli, or sriracha mayo. Finally, crab cakes can be used as a filling for sandwiches, sliders, or wraps. They pair well with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and other fresh toppings.
Other healthy seafood options
While crab cakes can be a tasty and nutritious food choice, there are plenty of other healthy seafood options to explore. For example, grilled fish like salmon, halibut, or cod is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Seared scallops are also a healthy seafood option, and they're low in fat and calories. Finally, shrimp stir-fry is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be made with plenty of veggies and a variety of spices and seasonings. It's a great way to get your daily serving of vegetables and protein.
Crab cakes are a nutritious and delicious seafood option, but it's important to enjoy them in moderation and balance them with other healthy foods.
FAQ about Crab Cake
1. What is a crab cake?
A crab cake is a type of seafood dish that is made by combining crab meat with various ingredients and then shaping the mixture into small cakes or patties which are then fried or baked.
2. How many calories are in a crab cake?
A 60.0g crab cake contains approximately 160 calories.
3. What are the ingredients used in making crab cakes?
The ingredients used in making crab cakes typically include crab meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, and various spices and seasonings such as Old Bay seasoning, parsley, and Dijon mustard.
4. Are crab cakes healthy?
Crab meat is a good source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals. However, crab cakes are often high in fat and calories due to the added ingredients used in their preparation, such as breadcrumbs and mayonnaise. As with all foods, moderation is key.
5. What are some serving suggestions for crab cakes?
Crab cakes can be served with a variety of side dishes such as coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a mixed green salad. They can also be served on a bun as a sandwich or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce such as tartar sauce or aioli.