Description
This Crab Brûlée is an elegant appetizer that takes the creamy richness of a classic crème brûlée and infuses it with the delicate sweetness of fresh crab meat. With a crispy caramelized top and a velvety, seafood-infused custard, this dish is perfect for dinner parties or special occasions. It’s a show-stopping starter that’s surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120g) fresh lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for caramelized top)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Make the custard base: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk the warm cream into the egg mixture to temper the eggs.
- Add the crab meat: Gently fold the crab meat into the custard mixture, being careful not to break up the lumps.
- Fill ramekins: Divide the mixture evenly among 4 small ramekins or shallow dishes.
- Bake in a water bath: Place the ramekins in a baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and chill: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled.
- Caramelize the top: Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crispy. Allow the sugar to cool and harden for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Notes
- Make it your own: Add a splash of sherry or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Tip: Garnish with finely chopped chives, microgreens, or a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra touch of elegance.
- Pro Tip: If you don’t have a kitchen torch, place the ramekins under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Protein: 9