How to Cook Imitation Crab with Butter: A Simple Guide

Imitation crab, also known as surimi, can be a delicious and budget-friendly alternative to real crab meat. While it lacks the subtle briny flavor of real crab, it soaks up seasoning well and pairs perfectly with rich, savory butter

In this comprehensive guide I’ll walk you through the full process of cooking imitation crab with butter. Whether you want to make a simple weeknight dinner or an appetizer that looks fancy enough for a dinner party, these tips will help you prepare tender, flavorful imitation crab every time.

Choosing Quality Imitation Crab Meat

The first step is selecting a good-quality imitation crab. Here’s what to look for:

• Texture: Seek out meat labeled as “chunk style” or “flake style”. This indicates larger pieces that will hold up better during cooking.

• Color: The crab should have a natural light pink or whitish hue. Avoid grayish colored meat.

• Ingredients Check for crab meat made primarily from pollock or other white fish Avoid products with fillers like wheat flour

• Brand: Popular options include Fresh Crab® Premium Crab Delights and Trader Joe’s Imitation Crab Meat. Read reviews to find a brand you like.

Getting quality crab meat is key for getting the best results. Now let’s talk about making a flavorful butter sauce.

Preparing a Simple Garlic Lemon Butter

Butter is the perfect complement to sweet, mild imitation crab. Here’s an easy compound butter recipe:

• Melt 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.

• Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

• Stir in the zest of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.

• Remove pan from heat and set aside to let flavors infuse.

• For a luxurious texture, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream or crème fraîche.

• Season with salt, white pepper, and chopped parsley.

This quick lemon garlic butter adds tons of flavor. Now let’s prep the crab.

Seasoning Imitation Crab Meat

Proper seasoning is vital for making imitation crab shine. Consider these options:

• Old Bay – The iconic crab seasoning has the perfect blend of spices.

• Lemon pepper – Brightens the sweetness of the crab.

• Cajun spice – For a kick of heat, use a blend with cayenne and garlic.

• Fresh herbs – Chopped dill, parsley, chives add fresh flavor.

• Salt and pepper – Enhance natural flavors.

I recommend tasting the plain crab first to decide which seasonings to use. Start with just a pinch and adjust to your taste.

Cooking Imitation Crab in a Skillet

For the cooking method, I suggest sautéing the crab in the prepared butter sauce. Here’s how:

• Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.

• When melted, add the crab and sauté 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through and lightly browned.

• Stir in the lemon garlic butter sauce and toss to coat the crab completely.

• Cook just 1-2 minutes more until the sauce is heated through.

Be careful not to overcook the crab, as it can become rubbery. Just heat it until warmed through and coated in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This butter crab pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice – Jasmine, basmati, risotto, fried rice.

• Pasta – Linguine, angel hair, fettucine.

• Bread – Crusty sourdough, baguette, rolls.

• Vegetables – Sauteed zucchini, roasted asparagus, grilled corn.

You can also stuff it into lettuce cups, serve over a fresh salad, or even use it to top pizza. Get creative with your favorite flavors and ingredients!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover crab meat in an airtight container for 3-4 days. To reheat, I suggest:

• Sautéing over medium heat with a bit of butter or oil.

• Microwaving in 30 second intervals, stirring between each.

• Placing in a baking dish, drizzling with sauce, and baking at 350°F until heated through.

With my tips for choosing, seasoning, cooking, and serving imitation crab with butter, you can make simple yet impressive seafood dishes. This versatile ingredient takes well to all kinds of global flavors too.

So next time you come across imitation crab in the grocery store, grab a pack and turn it into something delicious using this easy guide. Your family and friends will be asking you to make it again and again.