Description
This crab brûlée recipe combines creamy custard, sweet lump crab meat, and a crisp caramelized topping for an elegant seafood appetizer. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or romantic dinners, this dish is a show-stopper that’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
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Ingredients:
For the Custard:
- 1 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
- Prepare the custard base:
In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg yolks, garlic, shallots, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper until well combined. - Incorporate the crab meat:
Gently fold the lump crab meat into the custard mixture, ensuring it remains intact for the best texture. - Assemble and bake:
Divide the mixture evenly into four ramekins. Place the ramekins in a deep baking dish, then fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. - Broil or torch the topping:
Combine parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture over each custard. Broil on high for 1–2 minutes, or use a kitchen torch to caramelize the topping until golden and crisp. - Garnish and serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Fresh lump crab meat provides the best flavor and texture.
- You can prepare the custard mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it, adding the topping and caramelizing just before serving.
- Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete appetizer experience.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: dinner
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 150mg