Bahamian Baked Crab
A savory and flavorful baked crab dish, often made with fresh crab meat mixed with aromatic seasonings, breadcrumbs, and sometimes a touch of tomato and onion. It's a comforting and traditional Bahamian delicacy.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Fresh crab meat(cleaned and picked)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs(plain or seasoned)
- 0.5 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 0.25 medium Bell pepper(finely chopped (any color))
- 1 stalk Celery(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 large Egg(beaten)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Hot sauce(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Butter or oil(for sautéing)
- 1 tbsp Optional: Tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Optional: Fresh parsley(chopped)
👨‍🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- 2
In a skillet, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. If using, add tomato paste and fresh parsley. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- 5
Transfer the crab mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- 6
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is heated through.
- 7
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
đź’ˇ Pro Tips
- âś“Ensure crab meat is fresh for the best flavor.
- âś“Adjust hot sauce and salt to your preference.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of dry sherry or white wine to the sautéed vegetables.
🔄 Variations
- Add a small amount of finely diced pimento for color and flavor.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
- Serve with a side of rice or a fresh green salad.