What is Imperial Crab? A Guide to This Classic Maryland Dish

Crab imperial is a classic crab dish hailing from Maryland’s Eastern Shore region. With its rich, creamy sauce and succulent crab meat, it’s a decadent seafood delicacy. But what exactly is imperial crab? Here’s an in-depth look at this iconic dish.

An Overview of Crab Imperial

• Crab imperial consists of fresh crab meat blended with an imperial sauce, then baked to perfection

• It originated in Maryland as an elegant way to highlight the sweet flavor of blue crab meat

• The dish is sometimes called “stuffed crab” since the mixture can be used as a stuffing. But true crab imperial is baked loose.

• It emerged in the late 1800s and became popular on restaurant menus by the 1930s.

• Crab imperial remains a staple dish in Maryland, though it has spread in popularity along the East Coast.

What Defines the Imperial Sauce?

The smooth, creamy imperial sauce is key. It traditionally contains:

• Mayonnaise – Usually Hellmann’s real mayonnaise, which holds up well when baked.

• Eggs – Whole eggs or egg yolks provide richness.

• Dry mustard – Gives the sauce a subtle zing.

• Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth of flavor.

• Lemon juice – A touch of acidity to balance the sauce.

• Old Bay seasoning – The iconic Maryland spice blend flavors the sauce.

The sauce ingredients are combined, whisked smooth, and folded gently into the crab meat. This binds the mixture while allowing the crab to remain in chunks.

The Best Type of Crabmeat for Imperial

• Jumbo lump – The largest chunks from the body provide the best texture.

• Backfin lump – Smaller lump pieces are also ideal for retaining shape.

• Avoid claw or flake meat, which easily falls apart when baked. The prized leg and body meat is key.

• Pasteurized crab is acceptable, but fresh local crab is ideal when possible.

• Ultimately any type works, including imitation crab for a budget version.

How to Prepare and Bake Crab Imperial

• Carefully fold the imperial sauce into chunks of crab meat. Be gentle to keep the crab intact.

• Portion the mixture lightly into a baking dish. Do not pack it down.

• Smooth the top and sprinkle with paprika or Old Bay for color.

• Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.

• Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. The texture will firm up slightly.

• Serve with a wedge of lemon and enjoy with your favorite wine or beer.

Variations on Classic Crab Imperial

While the traditional version remains popular, some chefs put their own spin on crab imperial:

• Adding cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère cheese takes it to another level.

• Fresh herbs like chives, tarragon, or parsley brighten up the flavor.

• Sherry, white wine, or seafood stock lend extra richness as part of the sauce.

• Spooning the mixture into mushrooms or peppers turns it into a stuffed appetizer.

• Using a pastry crust or bread crumbs as a topping makes it more of a casserole.

• Swapping in lobster or shrimp creates an indulgent surf and turf twist.

What to Serve with Crab Imperial

Crab imperial makes a decadent entrée, paired with:

• Asparagus spears – Elegant and fresh tasting.

• Roasted new potatoes – A classic starch accompaniment.

• Sautéed spinach – For color and nutrition.

• Dinner rolls – To sop up the delicious sauce.

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay is a classic beverage pairing. A pilsner-style beer also cleanses the palate between bites.

The Rich Flavor Payoff

Crab imperial requires minimal work, but rewards you with an incredibly rich, sumptuous dish. The tender crab, smooth sauce, and perfect golden crust join forces for an iconic Maryland flavor. Next time you’re craving classic crab, give this recipe a try. Just be ready to savor crab in its finest form!