Crab Cakes from Ruth's Chris feature tender lump crab meat blended with fresh herbs and spices, lightly breaded and pan-seared to a golden crisp, delivering a flavorful and succulent seafood appetizer with a perfectly crunchy exterior.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
- Baking sheet or plate (for holding formed cakes)
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs or fish spatula
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Stove top
- Food processor (optional, for breadcrumbs)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or fresh)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Using fresh lump crab meat is key to achieving the tender, flavorful center characteristic of Ruth's Chris Crab Cakes, and be sure to handle it gently to maintain its texture. Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley and green onions for added brightness, while Old Bay seasoning enhances the classic seafood flavor. The combination of mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce binds the ingredients without overpowering the delicate crab. Opt for panko or fresh breadcrumbs to create the cake's crunchy exterior when pan-seared with butter and vegetable oil. Your homemade version of Crab Cakes from Ruth's Chris will capture the perfect balance of succulent seafood and crispy crust found on their copycat menu.
Instructions
- Pick over crab meat to remove any shells, then set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Fold in parsley and green onions.
- Gently fold in crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps.
- Add breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper; mix gently until combined.
- Cover and refrigerate mixture for 30 minutes to chill.
- Shape chilled mixture into 6-8 cakes, pressing firmly to hold shape.
- Place formed crab cakes on a baking sheet or plate.
- Heat butter and vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Working in batches if needed, add crab cakes to skillet.
- Cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer cooked crab cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Crab Cakes from Ruth's Chris copycat menu rely on high-quality lump crab meat to achieve their signature tender texture and flavorful taste. If lump crab meat is unavailable, you can substitute with backfin crab meat or even a mix of crab and cooked shrimp, but be mindful this may alter the final texture. Using panko breadcrumbs helps maintain a crispy crust; fresh breadcrumbs can work but might yield a softer exterior. When forming the cakes, chill them briefly to help them hold their shape during cooking. Your skillet should be hot enough to sear the cakes quickly without burning the butter and oil mixture, ensuring a golden crust and juicy interior.
Tips
Be sure to carefully pick through the lump crab meat to remove any shell fragments, which can easily be missed and affect the texture. When folding in the crab meat and breadcrumbs, handle the mixture gently to maintain the large lumps that give your crab cakes a tender, flaky texture. Chilling the mixture for at least 30 minutes helps the cakes hold their shape during cooking and enhances the flavors. Use a combination of butter and vegetable oil in your skillet to achieve a perfectly golden, crispy crust without burning.
Nutritions
Crab cakes from Ruth's Chris provide a rich source of high-quality protein from lump crab meat, essential for muscle repair and overall body function. The use of mayonnaise and butter adds healthy fats that support brain health and satiety while contributing to flavor and texture. Fresh herbs like parsley supply antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin C and K, enhancing your immune system. Careful portioning ensures your meal balances protein, fat, and moderate carbohydrates from breadcrumbs, making it a well-rounded seafood appetizer.
Storage
Store uncooked crab cake mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to preserve freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Once cooked, place the crab cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their crispy exterior and tender interior for your optimal dining experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture and tangier taste, enhancing the freshness of your crab cakes. Use crushed saltine crackers instead of panko breadcrumbs to add a subtle buttery crunch while maintaining the crispiness. For a spicier variation, incorporate finely diced jalapenos or cayenne pepper to the mixture to give your crab cakes a bold kick. Try baking the crab cakes at 400degF (200degC) for 12-15 minutes instead of pan-searing to reduce oil usage and achieve a healthier, evenly cooked dish.
Allergies
Crab Cakes from Ruth's Chris contain shellfish, a common allergen that may cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. The recipe also includes eggs, mayonnaise, and breadcrumbs containing gluten, which could trigger allergies or intolerances. If you have food allergies, carefully review these ingredients and consult your healthcare provider before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Ruth's Chris Crab Cakes menu is beloved for its perfect balance of sweet, fresh crab meat and a crispy, golden crust seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. The dish features premium lump crab meat sourced for maximum flavor, combined with subtle hints of Dijon mustard and a tangy remoulade sauce that enhances every bite. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate the luxurious seafood experience at home, capturing the restaurant's rich textures and savory tastes without the high price. Your effort to try this recipe brings an authentic Ruth's Chris dining moment right to your kitchen, impressing family and friends alike.