Martin's Super Market
Martin's Surimi Crab
What it is
This is a processed seafood product made from white fish, often pollock, that has been deboned, ground into a paste, and then shaped and flavored to resemble crab meat. It is commonly found in refrigerated sections of grocery stores. The texture is typically tender and flaky, designed to mimic the natural flakiness of real crab. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in various dishes.
How people cook with it
Surimi crab is a convenient and affordable way to add a seafood element to many meals. It can be used in both hot and cold preparations.
- Salads
- Dips
- Casseroles
- Sandwiches
When using surimi crab, it is often flaked or chopped before being incorporated into recipes. For cold dishes like crab salad or dips, it can be mixed with mayonnaise, celery, onions, and seasonings. In hot preparations, such as casseroles or crab cakes, it can be bound with eggs and breadcrumbs and then baked or pan-fried. Ensure it is heated through if used in a hot dish. Its mild taste allows it to absorb the flavors of other ingredients.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike real crab meat, surimi crab is a highly processed product. Real crab has a more distinct, briny flavor and a firmer, more fibrous texture. Surimi is designed to be more uniform in texture and milder in taste, making it a more accessible and often less expensive alternative for culinary applications where the appearance and general texture of crab are desired.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for an economical and easy-to-use seafood substitute often choose surimi crab.
How to keep the rest
After opening the package, store any unused surimi crab in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best to consume the remaining product within two to three days to maintain its freshness and quality. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.