Best Crab Meat For Crab Cakes (2024 Updated)

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If you're planning to make crab cakes, you know that the quality of the crab meat makes all the difference. With so many different types of crab meat available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your recipe. Here are five key points to consider when looking for the best crab meat for your crab cakes.

1. Freshness: Fresh crab meat is always the best choice. Look for crab meat that has been recently caught and processed. This will ensure that the crab meat is of the highest quality and has the best flavor.

2. Type of crab meat: There are different types of crab meat available, including claw meat, lump meat, and jumbo lump meat. Lump and jumbo lump meat are the best choices for crab cakes, as they have a sweeter flavor and firmer texture.

3. Origin: The origin of the crab meat can also affect its quality. Crab meat that is sourced from the United States is generally of higher quality than imported crab meat.

4. Processing method: The processing method used to prepare the crab meat can also affect its quality. Look for crab meat that has been hand-picked and contains minimal shell fragments.

5. Price: While higher-priced crab meat may be of better quality, it's important to find a balance between quality and price. Look for crab meat that fits within your budget while still meeting the above criteria.

In summary, when looking for the best crab meat for crab cakes, prioritize freshness, type of crab meat, origin, processing method, and price. By considering these factors, you'll be sure to choose the best crab meat for your recipe.

10 Best Crab Meat For Crab Cakes

1. Chicken Of The Sea Lump Crab Meat, High In Calcium, 6 Oz. Can (Pack Of 12)

Chicken of the Sea Lump Crab Meat is a highly nutritious and delicious option for those looking for a healthy and convenient meal. This product is available in a pack of 12, each can containing 6 oz. of crab meat.

The crab meat is of high quality and does not contain any preservatives or GMOs. It is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, protein, and flavor, making it a perfect addition to a well-balanced meal.

Chicken of the Sea is known for sourcing its products from all around the world, ensuring that the crab meat is of the highest quality, flavor, texture, and appearance. This product is versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, such as salads, crab stuffing, crab cakes, antipasto platters, dips, pasta dishes, soups, and many more.

The company is committed to sustainability and is proud to be part of the #1 sustainable seafood company. This means that the crab meat is responsibly caught to protect the cleanest ocean waters in the world while offering high-quality and delicious crab meat.

One of the best things about Chicken of the Sea Lump Crab Meat is its on-the-go convenience. It is fast, easy, and ready-to-eat, making it a perfect option for a quick and healthy meal anytime and anywhere. Each order contains a pack of 12, making it an excellent source of nutrition at a great price.

In conclusion, Chicken of the Sea Lump Crab Meat is not only nutritious and delicious but also versatile and sustainable. Its on-the-go convenience makes it a perfect option for those who are always on the move but still want to enjoy a healthy and tasty meal. Check out their website for recipe ideas and enjoy this great product!

2. Bumble Bee White Crabmeat, 6 Oz – 16g Protein – Gluten Free – Ready To Eat – Ideal For Snacks Or Seafood Recipes, 12 Count (Pack Of 1)

Bumble Bee White Crabmeat is a great-tasting and protein-packed snack that comes in a pack of 12, 6 oz cans. This white crab meat is flaky in appearance and is meat from the body of the crab. It is a great alternative to canned fish and is a reliable keto food and keto snack for those on a ketogenic (keto) diet.

Quality is evident in every can of Bumble Bee white canned crab meat. It is great for a variety of seafood recipes, dips, and hors d'oeuvres. The convenient and versatile packaging of Bumble Bee packaged crabmeat allows for easy consumption, whether as a healthy lunch or as part of any other meal.

Bumble Bee takes steps to ensure the responsible management of the fisheries that provide the seafood for all their products, making Bumble Bee Crab Meat a great sustainable seafood option.

With each serving of Bumble Bee White Crabmeat, you get 16g of protein, making it a great snack or meal option for those looking to add more protein to their diet. The gluten-free nature of this crab meat makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.

Bumble Bee White Crabmeat is a great addition to any recipe that calls for crab meat. It is delicious mixed with mayonnaise and can be used as a base for crab cakes, crab salads, and other recipes. It is also a great addition to pasta dishes, soups, and stews, adding a unique flavor and texture to any meal.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a tasty, healthy, and versatile seafood option, Bumble Bee White Crabmeat is a great choice. With its high protein content, gluten-free nature, and sustainability, it is a great option for those who want to eat healthily and responsibly.

3. Handy Pelagicus Crab Cake Combo Pasteurized Crab Meat, 1 Pound — 6 Per Case.

The Handy Pelagicus Crab Cake Combo Pasteurized Crab Meat is a high-quality seafood product that is perfect for creating delicious and healthy dishes. This product comes in a case of six one-pound packs of pasteurized crab meat, which makes it an excellent choice for catering and other food service businesses. The crab meat is carefully processed and packaged to ensure that it is fresh and flavorful when it arrives at your doorstep.

It is important to note that this product is refrigerated, which means that it is perishable and has a relatively short shelf life. Some of the packs may have an expiration date as soon as two weeks from the date of receipt. Therefore, customers who are ordering a large quantity of this product or are concerned about expiration dates may want to consider a frozen alternative.

The Pelagicus Crab Cake Combo Pasteurized Crab Meat is an excellent choice for making crab cakes, crab dips, and other seafood dishes. The crab meat is carefully selected and processed to ensure that it is of the highest quality. It is pasteurized to eliminate any harmful bacteria, which makes it safe and healthy for consumption.

One of the benefits of using pasteurized crab meat is that it is ready to use right out of the package. There is no need to cook or clean the crab meat, which saves time and effort in the kitchen. The crab meat is also versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, from salads to soups to sandwiches.

Customers who value high-quality seafood products will appreciate the Handy Pelagicus Crab Cake Combo Pasteurized Crab Meat. It is a premium product that is perfect for creating delicious and healthy dishes. With its convenient packaging and excellent flavor, this crab meat is sure to become a staple in any kitchen.

4. Crown Prince Natural Fancy White-Lump Crab Meat, 6-Ounce Cans (Pack Of 12)

The Crown Prince Natural Fancy White-Lump Crab Meat is a high-quality product that comes in a pack of twelve 6-ounce cans, providing a total of 72 ounces of delicious and nutritious crab meat. This product is processed and packed without any bleaching agents or preservatives, ensuring that you get only the purest and most natural crab meat available.

One of the best things about this crab meat is that it is non-GMO Project Verified, so you can be sure that it is free from genetically modified organisms. Additionally, it contains 615 mg of omega-3, making it an excellent source of this essential nutrient.

The Crown Prince Natural Fancy White-Lump Crab Meat is also an excellent source of protein, providing you with the energy and nutrients you need to stay healthy and active. It is also a good source of calcium and iron, which are important minerals for maintaining strong bones and healthy blood.

Another great thing about this crab meat is that it is low in fat, making it a healthy and delicious addition to any meal. Whether you are looking for a healthy snack or a flavorful ingredient for your favorite dishes, this crab meat is sure to impress.

The Crown Prince Natural Fancy White-Lump Crab Meat is wild-caught and a product of Indonesia, ensuring that you get the freshest and most flavorful crab meat possible. So whether you are a seafood lover or just looking for a healthy and delicious way to add some variety to your diet, this crab meat is a great choice.

5. Old Bay Crab Cake Classic Crab Cake Mix, 1.24-Ounce Packets (Pack Of 12)

Old Bay Crab Cake Classic Crab Cake Mix is a member of the world-famous OLD BAY Seasoning flavor family. This authentic seasoning mix for crab cakes features a touch of OLD BAY, herbs and spices, and bread crumbs. The blend is perfect for anyone who wants to make authentic Maryland crab cakes with ease.

To make these delicious crab cakes, all you need to do is add crab meat and mayonnaise to the mix. The mix is designed to provide the perfect balance of flavors and textures, so you can enjoy a truly authentic Maryland crab cake experience.

The OLD BAY Seasoning flavor family is known for its distinctive blend of herbs and spices, and the Old Bay Crab Cake Classic Crab Cake Mix is no exception. The mix contains a blend of ingredients that are carefully selected to provide the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The mix contains bread crumbs that help to hold the crab cakes together, while the herbs and spices provide a delicious and authentic flavor. The Old Bay seasoning adds a touch of heat and tanginess to the mix, which is perfect for those who love bold, flavorful foods.

The Old Bay Crab Cake Classic Crab Cake Mix comes in convenient 1.24-ounce packets, making it easy to prepare just the right amount of crab cakes for your needs. Each pack contains 12 packets, so you can make a large batch of crab cakes for a party or family gathering.

Overall, the Old Bay Crab Cake Classic Crab Cake Mix is a must-have for anyone who loves authentic Maryland crab cakes. With its perfect blend of flavors and textures, this mix is sure to impress even the most discerning crab cake connoisseur. So why wait? Order your pack of Old Bay Crab Cake Classic Crab Cake Mix today and start enjoying the delicious taste of Maryland crab cakes in your own home.

6. Zatarain's Crab Cake Mix, 5.75 Oz (Pack Of 12)

Zatarain's Crab Cake Mix is the perfect solution for anyone who loves the taste of delicious seafood but doesn't have the time or expertise to create their own crab cakes from scratch. This convenient mix contains all of the essential ingredients needed to make mouth-watering crab cakes that are sure to impress.

Each pack of Zatarain's Crab Cake Mix includes 5.75 ounces of flavorful mix, enough to make 12 servings of delicious crab cakes. The mix is made with a combination of bread crumbs, bell peppers, lemon, and assorted spices that work together to create a burst of flavor with every bite.

What sets Zatarain's Crab Cake Mix apart from other crab cake mixes on the market is its simplicity. Making crab cakes with this mix is incredibly easy and only requires a few simple steps. To prepare, all you need to do is combine the mix with 1 pound of fresh or canned crab meat, mix well, and form into patties. Then, fry the patties until they are golden brown on both sides and serve.

Not only is Zatarain's Crab Cake Mix easy to use, it's also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. The mix can be used to create traditional crab cakes, or it can be used to make a variety of other seafood dishes such as crab-stuffed mushrooms or crab dip.

Overall, Zatarain's Crab Cake Mix is a must-have ingredient for anyone who loves seafood and wants to enjoy the delicious taste of crab cakes without the hassle of making them from scratch. With its easy-to-use formula and mouth-watering flavor, this mix is sure to become a staple in any seafood lover's kitchen.

7. Crown Prince, Fancy White Lump Crab Meat, 6 Oz

The Crown Prince Fancy White Lump Crab Meat is a premium seafood product that is processed and packed without any bleaching agents or preservatives. This ensures that the crab meat retains its natural flavor and nutritional value, making it a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.

One of the key benefits of this crab meat is that it is zero trans fat and a fat-free food, making it ideal for those who are health-conscious or trying to watch their calorie intake. It is also a good source of protein, with zero carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

The crab meat is wild-caught and is a product of Thailand, which is known for its high-quality seafood. This ensures that you are getting the freshest and most flavorful crab meat possible, as it is caught and processed in a sustainable and responsible manner.

In terms of taste and texture, the Crown Prince Fancy White Lump Crab Meat is exquisite. The meat is firm and flaky, with a sweet and delicate flavor that will complement a wide range of dishes. It can be used in salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and more, making it a versatile ingredient that can elevate any meal.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality, healthy, and delicious seafood product, the Crown Prince Fancy White Lump Crab Meat is an excellent choice. With its natural flavor, nutritional benefits, and wide range of uses, it is sure to become a staple in your pantry.

Best Crab Meat For Crab Cakes FAQs

Are there any specific brands or sources of crab meat that are recommended for making the best crab cakes?

There are a few brands and sources of crab meat that are recommended for making the best crab cakes. Firstly, fresh crab meat is always preferable to canned crab meat as it has a better texture and flavor. If fresh crab meat is not available, then canned crab meat can be used, but it is important to choose high-quality brands such as Bumble Bee, Chicken of the Sea, or Phillips. These brands use high-quality crab meat and have a good balance of meat and filler. It is also important to choose lump crab meat over claw meat as it has a sweeter flavor and a firmer texture. Additionally, some of the best sources of crab meat are from Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay area, where blue crabs are abundant and considered the best for making crab cakes. Overall, using high-quality, fresh lump crab meat from reputable brands or local sources will ensure the best results for making delicious crab cakes.

How do I determine the quality of crab meat for crab cakes?

When determining the quality of crab meat for crab cakes, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, look for fresh crab meat that is free from any odor or discoloration. It should also be moist and firm to the touch. The color of the meat should be a vibrant white or light pink.

Another important factor to consider is the type of crab meat being used. Jumbo lump crab meat is considered the best quality and is ideal for crab cakes. It has large, whole pieces of meat that are succulent and flavorful. Alternatively, backfin crab meat can also be used, which is a combination of jumbo lump and smaller flakes of meat.

Finally, consider where the crab meat is sourced from. Crab meat that is sourced locally or from reputable suppliers is likely to be of higher quality and freshness than crab meat that has been imported or frozen.

Is there a specific grade or classification of crab meat that is best for crab cakes?

Yes, there is a specific grade and classification of crab meat that is best for crab cakes. Jumbo lump crab meat is the most desirable and widely used type of crab meat for making crab cakes. It comes from the two large muscles that connect to the crab's back swimming legs and is prized for its sweet and delicate flavor, firm texture, and large, white chunks.

Backfin crab meat, which is a mix of the jumbo lump and smaller flakes of meat from the body, is also a good option for making crab cakes. It has a slightly softer texture than jumbo lump but still provides a good amount of flavor and meaty chunks.

Special or claw meat, which comes from the crab's legs and claws, is a lower grade and less expensive option. It has a stronger flavor and a slightly darker color than jumbo lump or backfin meat and is better suited for use in soups, stews, and dips rather than crab cakes.

Should I use fresh or canned crab meat for crab cakes?

Fresh crab meat is always the best option for crab cakes because it has a fresh, delicate flavor and a firm texture that is difficult to replicate with canned crab meat. Additionally, fresh crab meat has a higher quality than canned crab meat, which is often packed in brine or water, resulting in a less flavorful and less satisfying crab cake.

However, canned crab meat can be a good option if you are on a budget or do not have access to fresh crab meat. Canned crab meat is easier to find, more affordable, and has a longer shelf life than fresh crab meat. When using canned crab meat, be sure to drain it well and pat it dry before adding it to your crab cake mixture.

Ultimately, the choice between fresh or canned crab meat depends on your budget, location, and personal preferences. If you have access to fresh crab meat and can afford it, it is always the best choice. However, if fresh crab meat is not available or too expensive, canned crab meat can still make a delicious crab cake.

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

The best type of crab meat for making crab cakes is fresh lump crab meat. It is the most flavorful and has the largest chunks of meat, which provides the best texture for the cakes. However, fresh lump crab meat can be quite expensive, so jumbo lump crab meat is a good substitute.

Canned crab meat is not recommended for making crab cakes as it has a much softer texture and a less pronounced flavor. It is better suited for dishes where the crab is mixed with other ingredients.

It is important to note that the type of crab used can vary depending on the region. Blue crab is commonly used on the East Coast of the United States, while Dungeness or King crab is popular on the West Coast.

In summary, fresh lump or jumbo lump crab meat is the best choice for making crab cakes due to its flavor and texture.

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