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Close-up of a Crab Brulee with a golden sugar crust being cracked open by a spoon.

Crab Brulee: The Seafood Dish That’ll Impress Everyone


  • Author: Clara Morgan
  • Total Time: 3-4 hours
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

📌 Recipe Description
This Crab Brulee recipe is a stunning savory twist on the classic dessert. Featuring creamy, rich custard infused with nutmeg and lemon zest, combined with delicate, sweet crab meat, and finished with a crisp caramelized sugar top, it’s a dish that is as impressive as it is delicious. Perfect as an elegant appetizer, a unique brunch dish, or a gourmet treat for seafood lovers!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh crab meat (canned can be used if necessary)
  • 5 large egg yolks
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black or white pepper
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • Chopped herbs (parsley, chives, or cilantro)
  • 2 tbsp sugar (for caramelized topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 160ºC/320ºF.
  2. In a mixing bowl, separate the 5 egg yolks and set them aside.
  3. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
  4. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg, ensuring even mixing.
  5. Slowly temper the eggs by gradually adding the warm cream mixture while whisking continuously to avoid curdling.
  6. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve for an ultra-smooth custard texture.
  7. Stir in lemon zest for a fresh, bright flavor.
  8. Divide the crab meat evenly among four ramekins and top with chopped herbs.
  9. Pour the custard mixture over the crab, leaving a small gap at the top.
  10. Place ramekins in a baking dish and add hot water until it reaches about one-third up the sides of the ramekins.
  11. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  12. Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight.
  13. Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over each custard.
  14. Caramelize the sugar using a kitchen torch or under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  15. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • A water bath is essential for achieving a creamy, smooth custard.
  • If using canned crab, drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
  • Experiment with different herbs to find your preferred flavor combination.
  • Move the kitchen torch in small circles for even caramelization.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Brunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ramekin
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 245mg

Keywords: crab brulee, savory creme brulee, seafood custard, elegant appetizer, unique seafood dish