1. Prepare the Crab Mixture:
a. In a bowl, combine lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped green onions, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
b. Gently fold the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much; you want to keep those luscious chunks intact.
2. Shape the Crab Nuggets:
a. Scoop a spoonful of the crab mixture and shape it into small, bite-sized nuggets. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
b. Refrigerate the nuggets for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.
3. Set Up Breading Station:
a. In three separate bowls, set up a breading station. Place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second bowl, and a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs and Old Bay seasoning in the third bowl.
4. Bread the Crab Nuggets:
a. Roll each crab nugget in the flour, ensuring an even coating.
b. Dip the floured nugget into the beaten eggs, making sure it is well-covered.
c. Roll the nugget in the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
5. Fry the Crab Nuggets:
a. In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
b. Carefully place the breaded crab nuggets into the hot oil, frying until they turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
c. Remove the nuggets with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
a. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet chili sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a delicious dipping sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
a. Arrange the Crispy Crab Nuggets on a serving platter with the dipping sauce on the side.
b. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or lemon wedges for an extra touch.
Conclusion:
Crispy Crab Nuggets bring the delectable taste of crab to new heights with their golden, crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. Whether enjoyed as a delightful appetizer or the star of your seafood spread, these nuggets are a testament to the versatility and culinary joy that crab meat brings to the table. Get ready to savor the delightful combination of textures and flavors in every bite. Enjoy!