17 Chinese Restaurants Fake Crab Claws Recipe Unlock Flavor Sensations!
Published on: Mar 24, 2024
Chinese restaurants are known for their delicious and authentic cuisine that has been passed down for generations. One dish that is often seen on Chinese restaurant menus is fake crab claws. These crunchy and flavorful appetizers are a popular choice among diners, but many may not be aware that they can easily be recreated at home. In this article, we will delve into the world of Chinese restaurants and their fake crab claws recipe, giving you all the tips and tricks to create this delectable dish in your own kitchen.
If you're a fan of succulent, tender crab meat, then this recipe is a must-try. Steamed stone crab claws with melted butter is a simple and delicious dish that will impress any seafood lover. The combination of the sweet crab meat and rich melted butter is simply divine, and the best part is that it only takes a few minutes to prepare.
To start, you'll need to gather some fresh stone crab claws. You can find these at your local seafood market or grocery store. Make sure to choose claws that are firm and have a bright, orange color. Once you have your claws, it's time to get steaming.
Fill a pot with about 1-2 inches of water and place a steamer basket on top. Bring the water to a boil and then add the crab claws to the steamer basket. Cover the pot and let them steam for about 5-7 minutes. You'll know they're ready when the shells turn bright red.
While the claws are steaming, it's time to melt the butter. In a small saucepan, melt about a stick of butter over low heat. For a little extra flavor, you can add a clove of minced garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice to the melted butter.
Once the claws are done steaming, remove them from the pot and place them on a serving plate. Serve with the melted butter on the side for dipping. Trust us, you won't be able to resist dipping each succulent piece of crab meat into that rich, melted butter.
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Sweet and Sour Crab Claws
Main Ingredients: Crab Claws, Ketchup, Chili Sauce, Beaten Egg, Oyster
Sweet and sour dishes are a staple in Chinese cuisine, and this recipe puts a seafood spin on the classic. Sweet and sour crab claws are a delicious and unique way to enjoy crab meat. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is sure to please your taste buds.
To make this dish, you'll need to start by making a simple sweet and sour sauce. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of rice vinegar, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
While the sauce is simmering, heat up some oil in a wok or large skillet. Add in the crab claws and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. Then, pour the sweet and sour sauce over the crab claws and continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Once the sauce has thickened and the crab claws are evenly coated, remove them from the heat and serve over a bed of steamed rice. The combination of the tender crab meat and sweet and tangy sauce is simply irresistible.
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Louisiana Corn & Crab Bisque
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Chopped Onion, Chopped Green Bell
If you're in the mood for a creamy and comforting soup, then look no further than Louisiana corn and crab bisque. This hearty soup is packed with the flavors of the bayou and is perfect for a chilly evening. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover crab meat from your other recipes.
To start, you'll need to gather some key ingredients, including corn kernels, diced onion, diced bell pepper, diced celery, and lump crab meat. In a large pot, sauté the vegetables until they are tender. Then, add in the crab meat and continue to cook for a few minutes.
Next, you'll need to make the creamy base for the bisque. In a separate pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter and stir in 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour. Slowly add in 3 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Once the mixture is smooth, add it to the pot with the vegetables and crab meat.
Let the bisque simmer for about 10 minutes, then add in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of corn kernels. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot with some crusty bread on the side. This creamy and flavorful soup will warm you up from the inside out.
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Crab Claws with Lemon Butter Sauce
Main Ingredients: Crab Claws, Melted Butter, Lemon
Another delicious way to enjoy crab claws is with a tangy and zesty lemon butter sauce. This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. The lemon butter sauce adds a bright and refreshing twist to the sweet and delicate crab meat.
To make this dish, you'll need to start by steaming the crab claws, just like in the first recipe we shared. While they're steaming, melt some butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add in the juice of one lemon and a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Once the crab claws are done steaming, remove them from the pot and place them on a serving plate. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the crab claws and serve hot. The combination of the tender crab meat and tangy lemon butter sauce is simply irresistible.
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New Orleans Gumbo
Main Ingredients: Crawfish, Andouille Sausage, Oysters, Crab Claws, Roux
If you're a fan of Cajun flavors, then you have to try this New Orleans gumbo recipe. This hearty and flavorful stew is a staple in Louisiana cuisine and is traditionally made with a variety of seafood, including crab meat. The rich and spicy flavors of this gumbo will transport you straight to the French Quarter.
To make this dish, you'll need a variety of ingredients, including chicken broth, diced tomatoes, sliced okra, andouille sausage, and, of course, crab meat. In a large pot, sauté the sausage until it's browned, then add in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
Next, add in the sliced okra and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Then, add in the crab meat and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, add in some Cajun seasoning, such as Tony Chachere's, for an extra kick of flavor.
Serve the gumbo hot over a bed of rice, and don't forget to top it off with some chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. This New Orleans gumbo is a must-try for any seafood lover.
If you've ever ordered takeout from a Chinese restaurant, chances are you've tried their fried rice. This dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine and can be made with a variety of meats, including crab meat. This homemade version is just as tasty as the one from your favorite Chinese restaurant, and it's surprisingly easy to make.
To start, you'll need to gather some key ingredients, including cooked white rice, diced onion, diced carrots, and diced bell pepper. In a wok or large skillet, scramble a couple of eggs and set them aside. Then, add some oil to the pan and stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender.
Next, add in the cooked rice and the scrambled eggs to the pan and mix everything together. Then, add in some soy sauce and a sprinkle of sugar for a touch of sweetness. For some added protein and flavor, you can also add in some diced crab meat. Stir-fry everything together for a few minutes, and voila, your homemade Chinese restaurant fried rice is ready to be served.
If you're a fan of sweet and savory dishes, then Chinese orange chicken is a must-try. This popular dish is typically made with chicken, but you can easily substitute it with crab meat for a seafood twist. The tangy and slightly spicy orange sauce pairs perfectly with the tender crab meat.
To make this dish, you'll need some key ingredients, including orange juice, soy sauce, and honey. In a small saucepan, combine these ingredients along with some minced garlic and ginger. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
In a separate pan, stir-fry some diced onion and bell pepper until they are tender. Then, add in the crab meat and let it cook for a few minutes. Finally, pour the orange sauce over the crab meat and vegetables and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot over a bed of rice for a delicious and unique twist on traditional orange chicken.
Beef and broccoli is a classic Chinese dish that can also be made with crab meat. This recipe is quick and easy, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner. The tender crab meat adds a unique and delicious twist to this traditional dish.
To make this dish, you'll need some key ingredients, including sliced beef, broccoli florets, and oyster sauce. In a wok or large skillet, stir-fry the beef until it's cooked through. Then, add in the broccoli and continue to stir-fry until it's tender.
Next, add in the oyster sauce and a splash of water to create a delicious and savory sauce. Finally, add in the crab meat and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot over a bed of rice for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Another classic Chinese dish that can easily be made with crab meat is fried rice. This versatile dish can be made with a variety of ingredients, making it a great way to use up any leftover crab meat from your other recipes. Plus, it's a great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
To make this dish, you'll need some key ingredients, including cooked white rice, diced onion, diced carrots, and soy sauce. In a wok or large skillet, scramble a couple of eggs and set them aside. Then, add some oil to the pan and stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender.
Next, add in the cooked rice and scrambled eggs to the pan and mix everything together. Then, add in some soy sauce and a sprinkle of sugar for a touch of sweetness. Finally, add in the crab meat and stir-fry everything together for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Chinese fried rice.
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Chinese Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Olive Oil, Minced Ginger, Minced
For a hearty and satisfying meal, try these Chinese chicken thighs with a twist. Instead of using traditional chicken, this recipe calls for tender and flavorful crab meat. The combination of the juicy chicken thighs and delicate crab meat is simply irresistible.
To make this dish, you'll need to start by marinating some boneless chicken thighs in a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic. Let the chicken marinate for about 30 minutes, then grill or bake it in the oven until it's cooked through.
While the chicken is cooking, heat up some oil in a wok or large skillet and stir-fry some diced onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Then, add in the crab meat and let it cook for a few minutes. Finally, add in some oyster sauce and a splash of water to create a delicious sauce. Serve the chicken thighs hot with the crab meat and vegetables on top.
Similar to beef and broccoli, this dish can also be made with crab meat for a tasty and unique twist. This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. The combination of the tender chicken and delicate crab meat is sure to be a hit.
To make this dish, you'll need some key ingredients, including sliced chicken breast, broccoli florets, and oyster sauce. In a wok or large skillet, stir-fry the chicken until it's cooked through. Then, add in the broccoli and continue to stir-fry until it's tender.
Next, add in the oyster sauce and a splash of water to create a delicious and savory sauce. Finally, add in the crab meat and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot over a bed of rice for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Egg drop soup is a classic Chinese dish that is surprisingly easy to make at home. This light and comforting soup is perfect for a cold day or when you're feeling under the weather. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover crab meat.
To make this soup, you'll need some key ingredients, including chicken broth, cornstarch, and eggs. In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil and then reduce the heat. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with some water until it's smooth, then slowly pour it into the broth while stirring constantly.
In a separate bowl, beat a couple of eggs and slowly pour them into the soup, stirring constantly. The eggs will cook and create thin ribbons in the soup. Finally, add in the crab meat and let it simmer for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and delicious Chinese egg drop soup.
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Maryland Crab Soup
Main Ingredients: Stewed Tomatoes, Water, Fresh Lima Beans, Frozen Corn
If you're a fan of hearty and flavorful soups, then you have to try this Maryland crab soup. This classic dish is packed with the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay and is the perfect way to enjoy crab meat. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover crab meat from your other recipes.
To make this soup, you'll need a variety of ingredients, including diced tomatoes, corn, lima beans, and of course, crab meat. In a large pot, sauté some diced onion, celery, and green bell pepper until they are tender. Then, add in the diced tomatoes and let them cook for a few minutes.
Next, add in the corn and lima beans, along with some chicken broth and spices like Old Bay seasoning. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, then add in the crab meat and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of Maryland in every bite.
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Classic Pork Fried Rice - A Chinese Takeout favorite
Main Ingredients: Hot Water, Honey, Sesame Oil, Shaoxing Wine, Soy Sauce
Pork fried rice is a classic Chinese takeout favorite, and for good reason. This dish is packed with flavor and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients, including crab meat. This homemade version is just as tasty as the one from your local Chinese restaurant, and it's surprisingly easy to make.
To start, you'll need to gather some key ingredients, including cooked white rice, diced onion, diced carrots, and diced pork. In a wok or large skillet, scramble a couple of eggs and set them aside. Then, add some oil to the pan and stir-fry the vegetables and pork until they are tender.
Next, add in the cooked rice and scrambled eggs to the pan and mix everything together. Then, add in some soy sauce and a sprinkle of sugar for a touch of sweetness. Finally, add in the crab meat and stir-fry everything together for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade pork fried rice.
If you've ever ordered Chinese takeout, then you're probably familiar with duck sauce. This sweet and tangy condiment is the perfect accompaniment to egg rolls and other appetizers. And the best part is, it's incredibly easy to make at home.
To make this sauce, you'll need some key ingredients, including apricot preserves, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Simply combine all of the ingredients in a small saucepan and let it simmer for a few minutes until the preserves have melted and the flavors have melded together.
This homemade version of Chinese restaurant-style duck sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it's a great way to add some extra flavor to your crab meat dishes.
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Egg Fried Rice - An Easy Chinese
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Large Eggs, Paprika, Turmeric, Oil, Medium
The History of Fake Crab Claws
The Origins of Chinese Imitation Seafood
Imitation seafood has been around for centuries in Chinese cuisine. It was created as a way to mimic the taste and texture of expensive and hard-to-find seafood, making it accessible to the masses. The first recorded imitation seafood was made from fish paste and was used in a variety of dishes, including soups and stir-fries. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that the fake crab claw became popular in Chinese restaurants in the United States.
The Rise of Fake Crab Claws in Chinese Restaurants
In the 1970s, there was a shortage of crab meat in the United States, and Chinese restaurants were looking for a substitute that would still give their customers the taste and texture they craved. Enter the fake crab claw, made from a blend of fish paste, starch, and flavorings. This imitation seafood quickly gained popularity, not only because it was more affordable than real crab meat, but also because it was easier to work with and could be molded into various shapes, including the iconic crab claw.
Creating the Perfect Fake Crab Claw
The Ingredients
To make fake crab claws at home, you will need a few key ingredients. These include fish paste, starch, imitation crab meat, and seasonings such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. You can find these ingredients at your local Asian market or in the international section of your grocery store.
The Method
The first step in creating the perfect fake crab claw is to mix together the fish paste, starch, and seasonings until well combined. Then, take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a claw-like shape, using your fingers to create ridges and texture. Next, wrap a piece of imitation crab meat around the claw, pressing it firmly into the mixture. Finally, deep fry the claws until golden brown and crispy.
Enjoying Your Homemade Fake Crab Claws
Once your fake crab claws are cooked to perfection, you can serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. They are also a great addition to stir-fries and soups, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. And with this simple recipe, you can now enjoy Chinese restaurant-style fake crab claws in the comfort of your own home.
In Conclusion
Now that you know the history and process behind Chinese restaurants' fake crab claws, you can impress your friends and family with your homemade version. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can recreate this beloved dish and add a touch of Chinese cuisine to your next meal. So next time you're craving some delicious seafood, skip the expensive restaurants and try making fake crab claws at home.
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