If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s rich, creamy, and completely indulgent, this Crab Brûlée is the perfect recipe. Combining the smooth texture of a savory custard with the delicate sweetness of crab, this dish is finished with a crisp caramelized crust for the ultimate contrast of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or the star of your dinner party, this Crab Brûlée will leave everyone impressed.
Let’s get fancy and start cooking!
Crab Brûlée
Ingredients
For the Crab Brûlée
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Topping
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- A pinch of nutmeg for added depth
- 1 tbsp minced chives for a fresh oniony kick
Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and almond milk as substitutes for the cream and milk and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place four 4-ounce ramekins in a baking dish and set aside.
Prepare the Custard Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, and egg yolks until smooth.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Incorporate the Crab Meat
- Gently fold the lump crab meat into the custard mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed without breaking the delicate crab pieces.
Fill the Ramekins
- Divide the crab custard mixture evenly among the ramekins.
- Place the baking dish with the ramekins into the oven.
- Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish, filling it halfway up the sides of the ramekins to create a water bath.
Bake the Brûlée
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool for 10 minutes.
Caramelize the Topping
- Sprinkle the tops of each custard with a thin, even layer of sugar and grated Parmesan.
- Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
- Alternatively, you can broil the ramekins for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve your Crab Brûlée warm as an appetizer or a luxurious side dish.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250-300
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- For a richer flavor, use all heavy cream instead of a mix with milk.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste—add more paprika or cayenne if you like bolder flavors.
- Ensure the crab meat is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the custard.
Variations:
- Spicy Crab Brûlée: Add a touch more cayenne or even diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Herbaceous Brûlée: Fold in chopped fresh herbs like tarragon, dill, or parsley for a fragrant twist.
- Lobster Brûlée: Substitute crab with cooked lobster meat for an extra decadent dish.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: Serve this Crab Brûlée with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling champagne.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the custard and bake the ramekins in advance. Store in the fridge, and caramelize the topping just before serving for the best texture.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover brûlée in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and re-caramelize the topping if needed.
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Crab Brûlée that’s creamy, savory, and elegantly crisped on top! This dish is a true indulgence, perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to elevate your menu. The combination of smooth custard, delicate crab, and a caramelized topping creates a flavor and texture experience that’s unforgettable. So grab your ramekins, fire up your kitchen torch, and enjoy the luxurious delight of Crab Brûlée!