Southern Crab Beignets are crispy, golden seafood fritters filled with sweet lump crab meat, vegetables, and Cajun spices. Served with a tangy remoulade sauce, they make an impressive appetizer for gatherings and special occasions.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Appetizer
Method:Deep Fry
Cuisine:Southern
Diet:Low Lactose
Ingredients
1 lb lump crab meat
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
3 green onions, finely chopped
1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp prepared horseradish
1 tsp hot sauce
1 tbsp capers, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, horseradish, hot sauce, capers, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until fully combined.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
Fold in the crab meat, green onions, red bell pepper, and garlic, taking care not to break up the crab meat too much.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
Using a small scoop or spoon, carefully drop portions of batter into the hot oil.
Fry in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the beignets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve immediately with the chilled remoulade sauce.
Notes
Add finely chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Substitute part of the crab meat with shrimp for a mixed seafood version.
Mix in shredded cheddar cheese for added richness.
Use Old Bay seasoning instead of Cajun seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Fresh parsley or chives add brightness and color.
Store leftover beignets in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 4 to 5 minutes.
Freeze cooked and cooled beignets for up to 2 months.