Peektoe crabs, found in the icy-cold waters off the coast of Maine, are known for their delicate flavor and unique appearance. The word “peekytoe” refers to the small tuft of reddish bristles found on the last joint of the crab's legs. These sought-after crustaceans are a delectable treat, often featured in various culinary preparations, from classic steamed feasts to creative gourmet dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood enthusiast or a curious home cook, embarking on a culinary journey into the world of Maine peekytoe crabs will unveil a treasure trove of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!
PEEKYTOE CRAB TOAST
Peekytoe crab, so named because of its toelike leg tips, sits sweet and tender atop toasted bread in this recipe from chef Dan Kluger. Also try:Shaved Raw Summer Squash with Parmesan Dressing, Roasted Beets with Yogurt, Roasted Squash with Parmesan
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Appetizers
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine crab meat, fennel fronds, serrano chile, 3 tablespoons olive oil, and salt; set aside.
- Drizzle bread with remaining 1/4 cup olive oil. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add bread and cook, turning once, until golden and crisp on each side.
- Remove bread from skillet and spread one side of each slice with aioli; top with crab mixture. Cut each slice of bread into quarters and top crab with a dollop of aioli. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
JOHNNYCAKES WITH PEEKYTOE CRAB
Categories Appetizer Thanksgiving Cornmeal Crab Fall Bon Appétit Sugar Conscious Kidney Friendly Pescatarian Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free
Yield Makes 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Mix crabmeat, mayonnaise, chives, and lemon juice in medium bowl to blend. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate. (Can be made 8 hours ahead. Keep refrigerated.)
- Bring milk and 1 1/3 cups water to boil in heavy large saucepan over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in polenta, then butter and salt. Remove batter from heat; let stand 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lightly butter large rimmed baking sheet. Heat large nonstick griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Brush lightly with vegetable oil. Working in batches, spoon 1 tablespoonful batter for each cake onto griddle, spreading slightly with back of spoon. Cook until cakes are golden brown on bottom and firm at edges, about 2 minutes. Turn cakes over and cook until firm and golden brown, about 1 minute longer. Transfer to prepared baking sheet. (Can be made 8 hours ahead. Cool, then cover with foil and refrigerate. Rewarm, covered, in 350°F oven until hot, about 7 minutes.)
- Divide johnnycakes among 8 plates. Top johnnycakes with crab mixture.
MAINE PEEKYTOE CRAB CAKES RECIPE
Provided by jenkid
Number Of Ingredients 19
Steps:
- For sauce: Whisk ingredients together in a mixing bowl. For Crab Cakes: Melt the butter in a large saute pan over medium heat. Add the bread crumbs, salt & pepper and stir with a large spoon until the butter is fully incorporated. Remove from the heat and let cool. Place the crabmeat in a large bowl and pick through it removing any bits of shell. Add the lemon juice to the crabmeat and toss. Mix in the sour cream, 1/2 cup flour, and the bread crumbs. Form the crab mixture into 6 hamburger size patties, each about 1/2 inch thick. (If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more flour.) Coat each crab cake with flour. Warm the vegetable oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat until hot. Add the crab cakes and cook until very brown, about 2 minutes on each side. Place one crab cake onto each of the warm plates. Garnish with a dollop of remoulade.
Tips:
- Freshness is Key: Always use fresh, live peekytoe crabs for the best flavor and texture.
- Proper Cooking Method: Steaming is the preferred cooking method for peekytoe crabs, as it preserves their delicate flavor and prevents overcooking.
- Seasoning: Keep the seasoning simple to allow the natural sweetness of the crab to shine through. Old Bay seasoning, melted butter, and lemon wedges are classic accompaniments.
- Don't Overcook: Peekytoe crabs cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. Overcooked crab meat becomes tough and loses its flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve peekytoe crabs with melted butter for dipping, lemon wedges, and your favorite sides such as corn on the cob, potato salad, or coleslaw.
Conclusion:
Peekytone crabs are a delicious and versatile seafood delicacy that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you steam them, boil them, or bake them, these crabs are sure to please your taste buds. With their delicate flavor and tender meat, peekytoe crabs are a perfect choice for a special occasion meal or a casual seafood feast. So next time you're looking for a unique and flavorful seafood experience, be sure to give peekytoe crabs a try!
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