Imitation crab meat, also known as surimi, is a versatile seafood product made from whitefish that has been pulverized and formed into chunks that resemble real crab meat. Its mild flavor makes it perfect for integrating into various dishes like sushi rolls, ramen, pasta, and more. Here are two easy methods for cooking imitation crab – sautéing in a pan with butter and cooking in an air fryer.

1. How To Cook Imitation Crab Meat in Pan

Ingredients

  • 1 lb imitation crab meat chunks
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1⁄4 tsp salt
  • 1⁄4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Pick through the imitation crab chunks to break apart any large clusters into smaller pieces.

Melt the butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Then add the imitation crab crab meat and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until heated through. Next, season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, stirring to coat the imitation crab meat.

Remove from heat once the imitation crab meat is warmed through and starting to turn opaque. Do not overcook.

Garnish with chopped parsley. The sautéed imitation crab meat adds richness and flavor as a topping or mix-in in various dishes such as sushi, ramen, or pasta . Adjust seasonings to taste.

2. How To Cook Imitation Crab Meat in Air Fryer

Ingredients

  • 1 lb imitation crab meat, chopped into bite size pieces
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1⁄4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions
  • 1⁄2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1⁄2 tsp paprika
  • 1⁄4 tsp salt
  • 1⁄4 tsp pepper

Instructions

In a bowl, mix together the egg, mayonnaise, panko crumbs, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper until well combined.

Add in the chopped imitation crab and gently mix until all the crab is evenly coated in the mixture. Be careful not to break up the crab too much.

Use a tablespoon to scoop up portions of the crab mixture and gently shape into bite size balls or patties. Place on a lightly greased air fryer basket without overcrowding.

Spray the tops lightly with oil. Air fry at 380°F for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside, flipping halfway through.

Serve warm with desired dipping sauces like lemon aioli, remoulade, sweet chili sauce or ranch.

Refrigerate any uncooked mixture up to 2 days to make more bites. Adjust cook times as needed for larger sized bites.

With its mild seafood taste that takes on other flavors, imitation crab meat is an affordable and versatile ingredient to keep stocked. Simply sautéing in butter or cooking in the air fryer are two easy ways to prepare it for any dish!

Discover mouthwatering recipes, how to cook basic, and knowledge to know when cooking with Jarrett Stieber on the website Eat Me Speak Me.

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