Crab Cake Benedict
A luxurious twist on the classic brunch favorite! Flaky, golden crab cakes replace the traditional Canadian bacon, topped with a perfectly poached egg and draped in a rich, tangy hollandaise sauce. An unforgettable meal for a special weekend morning.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Crab Cakes
- b.In a medium bowl, gently fold together the lump crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, 1 large egg, dijon mustard, worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, 0.5 tsp salt, and black pepper. Be careful not to break up the crab meat.
- c.Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, about 1-inch thick.
- d.Place the formed patties on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This step is crucial to help them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Hollandaise Sauce
- b.Create a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (do not let the bowl touch the water).
- c.In the bowl, whisk the 3 egg yolks, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tbsp water until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- d.Reduce heat to low. Very slowly, drizzle in the 8 tbsp of melted butter in a thin stream while whisking constantly and vigorously. Continue until the sauce is thick, smooth, and has doubled in volume.
- e.Remove from heat. Whisk in 0.25 tsp salt and the cayenne pepper. Cover and keep in a warm spot until ready to serve.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Crab Cakes and Poach the Eggs
- b.While making the sauce, start poaching the eggs. Fill a separate saucepan with 3-4 inches of water, add the white vinegar, and bring to a bare simmer (small bubbles on the bottom, no rapid boiling).
- c.Crack the 4 eggs into individual small bowls. Create a gentle vortex in the simmering water and carefully slide one egg into the center. Cook for 3-4 minutes for a runny yolk. Remove with a slotted spoon and set on a paper towel.
- d.Simultaneously, heat the vegetable oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- e.Carefully place the chilled crab cakes in the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and heated through. Transfer to a plate.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Toast the 4 English muffin halves until golden brown.
- c.Place one toasted muffin half on each of the four serving plates.
- d.Top each muffin with a warm crab cake, followed by a poached egg.
- e.Generously spoon the warm hollandaise sauce over each egg.
- f.Garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve immediately for the best experience.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use high-quality lump crab meat and avoid overmixing the crab cake mixture.
- 2Chilling the crab cakes before frying is crucial; it helps them hold their shape in the pan.
- 3To prevent the hollandaise sauce from breaking, make sure the butter is drizzled in very slowly and whisk constantly.
- 4A splash of vinegar in the poaching water helps the egg whites coagulate and form a neater shape.
- 5Ensure your English muffins are well-toasted to prevent them from becoming soggy from the sauce.
- 6If your hollandaise breaks, whisk a teaspoon of hot water into a clean bowl, then slowly whisk the broken sauce back in until it emulsifies.
- 7For perfectly round poached eggs, you can use silicone egg poaching cups.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of sriracha or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the hollandaise for a spicy kick.
HerbaceousHerbaceous
Incorporate fresh dill or tarragon into the crab cake mixture or the hollandaise sauce for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Base SwapBase Swap
Substitute the English muffin with a toasted brioche slice, a crispy potato rosti, or a bed of sautéed spinach.
Gourmet GarnishGourmet Garnish
Top the finished dish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika, capers, or a few pieces of fresh avocado.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
With primary ingredients of crab meat and eggs, this dish is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Crab is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial fats that support heart health, reduce inflammation, and contribute to healthy brain function.
Provides Key Vitamins and Minerals
This dish offers a range of important nutrients, including Vitamin B12 from the crab and eggs for nerve function, and selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Crab Cake Benedict contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used, particularly the amount of butter and mayonnaise. It is a rich and satisfying meal.