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crab brulee recipe

 Crab Brulee Recipe

Jada Parker
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dinner / Appetizer
Cuisine French / Seafood
Servings 4 servings
Calories 281 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ cup 126 g fresh crab meat: Use high-quality lump crab meat for the best flavor.
  • 3 large egg yolks: These add richness and help create the custard base.
  • 1½ cups 357 g heavy cream: Essential for achieving that creamy texture.
  • ⅜ tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • ⅕ tsp black or white pepper: Adds warmth and depth.
  • ⅛ tsp grated nutmeg: Provides a subtle hint of spice.
  • Chopped herbs such as parsley or chives: Fresh herbs brighten the dish.
  • 1½ tbsp sugar for caramelized topping: Creates the crispy layer on top.
  • Equipment Needed
  • Ramekins 4 to 6, depending on size
  • Baking dish or roasting pan
  • Whisk
  • Fine-mesh sieve
  • Kitchen torch or broiler for caramelizing

Instructions
 

Preheat Your Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

Prepare the Custard Base:

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
  • Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the cream, mixing well.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until they are pale and slightly thickened.
  • Gradually whisk the hot cream into the egg yolks to temper them, preventing curdling. Whisk continuously to ensure a smooth mixture.

Strain the Custard:

  • Pass the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl to remove any lumps and ensure a velvety texture.

Combine with Crab Meat:

  • Gently fold in your fresh crab meat and any chopped herbs you desire, taking care not to break apart the crab too much.

Prepare Ramekins:

  • Place your ramekins in a baking dish or roasting pan. Divide the crab mixture evenly among them.

Create a Bain-Marie:

  • Fill the baking dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath helps maintain moisture during baking.

Bake:

  • Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Cool and Chill:

  • Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least two hours or until thoroughly chilled.

Caramelize the Sugar Topping:

  • Just before serving, sprinkle an even layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden brown and crispy. If you don’t have a torch, you can place them under a broiler for a few minutes—just watch closely to prevent burning.

Serve:

  • Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately while enjoying the contrast of textures between the creamy custard and crispy topping.

Notes

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Crab Meat: For optimal flavor, always choose fresh crab meat over canned or frozen options when possible.
  • Don’t Rush Chilling: Allowing your brulees to chill thoroughly is crucial for achieving that silky texture.
  • Master Caramelization: When using a torch, aim for an even golden color on top—this adds both texture and visual appeal.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding:
  • Spices: A pinch of cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning for some heat.
  • Cheese: Incorporate grated Parmesan or Gruyère into your custard mixture for added richness.
  • Herbs: Try using dill or tarragon instead of parsley or chives for a different flavor profile.
This crab brulee recipe is perfect for special occasions or as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering! Enjoy your culinary creation!

Nutrition

Serving: 1ramekin (approximately 110g)Calories: 281kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 4gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 194mgSodium: 48mgSugar: 13g
Keyword caramelized topping, crab brulee recipe, creamy custard, savory dessert, seafood dish
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