
Imitation Crab Meat
Imitation crab meat, also known as surimi, is a processed seafood product made to resemble crab leg meat. It's crafted from minced fish, typically pollock, blended with starch, egg white, and flavorings to mimic the taste and texture of real crab. Often dyed with a reddish-orange exterior, imitation crab provides a more affordable and accessible option for enjoying crab-like flavor. While not authentic crab, it offers a mild, slightly sweet, and subtly briny taste with a tender, flaky texture, perfect for various dishes where real crab meat might be cost-prohibitive.
Common Uses
- Use in crab salads: Imitation crab meat is a popular and affordable alternative to real crab for creating creamy and flavorful crab salads, often mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and seasonings.- Add to sushi rolls: Many sushi restaurants use imitation crab, also known as kanikama, in California rolls and other sushi variations, providing a sweet and slightly salty seafood element.- Incorporate into dips and spreads: Shredded or chopped imitation crab meat can be added to dips and spreads to impart a subtle crab-like flavor, enhancing appetizers and snacks.- Make crab cakes: While not authentic, imitation crab can be used to create a more budget-friendly version of crab cakes, offering a similar texture and taste when combined with breadcrumbs, seasonings, and binders.- Add to seafood pasta dishes: Toss imitation crab meat into pasta dishes, such as linguine with white clam sauce or creamy seafood Alfredo, to add a seafood element without the high cost of real crab.- Enhance seafood casseroles: Layer imitation crab into seafood casseroles with vegetables and a creamy sauce for a budget-friendly way to add crab-like flavor and texture to a comforting dish.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
94.0kcal (4.7%)
Protein
9.0g (18%)
Carbs
12.0g (4.36%)
Sugars
4.0g (8%)
Healthy Fat
0.4g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
94.0kcal (4.7%)
Protein
9.0g (18%)
Carbs
12.0g (4.36%)
Sugars
4.0g (8%)
Healthy Fat
0.4g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Low in fat and calories, making it a suitable option for weight management.
- A source of protein, contributing to muscle maintenance and satiety.
- Contains omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health (though in smaller amounts than real crab).
- May provide essential minerals like phosphorus, important for bone health.
- Can be a more affordable seafood alternative, expanding access to seafood-based meals.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Imitation crab meat should always be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. Keep it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container. Consume it by the expiration date printed on the package. Once opened, use it within 3-5 days for the best flavor and texture. Freezing is generally not recommended as it can significantly alter the texture, making it mushy.
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