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The 5 Best Substitutes for Mayo in Crab Cakes: Delicious Alternatives for a Creamy Texture

Crab cakes are a delicious and popular seafood dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Whether you prefer them fried, baked, or grilled, crab cakes are a versatile meal that can be served as an appetizer or main course.

One key ingredient that is often used in crab cake recipes is mayonnaise, which helps to bind the ingredients together and add flavor.

However, not everyone is a fan of mayonnaise, or may be looking for a healthier or more flavorful alternative.

In this article, we will explore the 5 best substitutes for mayo in crab cakes.

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Crab cakes

Mayonnaise is a common ingredient in crab cake recipes, but there are many other options that can be used instead.

Greek yogurt, sour cream, and avocado are just a few of the substitutes that can be used to add creaminess and flavor to your crab cakes.

Each substitute has its own unique taste and texture, so it’s important to experiment and find the one that works best for you.

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to mayonnaise, there are also several options to choose from.

Olive oil and hummus are both low-fat substitutes that can be used in crab cakes to add flavor and moisture.

Whether you’re looking to cut down on calories or simply want to try something new, these substitutes can help you create delicious and healthy crab cakes that everyone will enjoy.

Why Substitute Mayo?

Why Use Mayo in Crab Cakes

Mayonnaise is a common ingredient in crab cake recipes, but not everyone is a fan of its taste or texture. Some people may also be allergic to eggs, which are a key component of mayo.

In these cases, it’s important to have some alternatives to mayo that can still provide the necessary moisture and binding properties for the crab cake mixture.

Fortunately, there are several substitutes for mayo that can work well in crab cake recipes. These substitutes can also add different flavors and textures to the dish, making it more interesting and customizable to individual tastes.

Here are some of the best substitutes for mayo in crab cakes:

  • Greek yogurt: This thick and creamy yogurt can provide a tangy flavor and a similar texture to mayo. It’s also high in protein and lower in fat than mayo, making it a healthier option.
  • Sour cream: Another creamy and tangy option, sour cream can also provide a rich flavor and smooth texture to the crab cake mixture.
  • Aioli: This Mediterranean sauce is made from garlic, olive oil, and egg yolks, and can provide a flavorful and slightly spicy kick to crab cakes.
  • Avocado: Mashed avocado can add a creamy and buttery texture to crab cakes, as well as a boost of healthy fats and nutrients.
  • Mustard: Dijon or whole-grain mustard can add a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to crab cakes, as well as help bind the ingredients together.

By using these substitutes for mayo in crab cakes, you can create a dish that is both delicious and customizable to your preferences. Experiment with different combinations and find the one that works best for you!

Greek Yogurt

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a super popular substitute for mayonnaise in crab cakes. It has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor that can complement the sweetness of crab meat. Greek yogurt is also a healthier option as it is lower in fat and calories compared to mayonnaise.

When using Greek yogurt as a substitute for mayo, it is important to choose a thick and creamy variety to get the desired texture. You can also add some lemon juice or vinegar to the yogurt to enhance its tanginess and mimic the flavor of mayonnaise.

Here is a quick and easy recipe for crab cakes using Greek yogurt:

Ingredients:Instructions:
1 pound crab meat1. In a large bowl, mix together the crab meat, Greek yogurt, breadcrumbs, egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning.
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt2. Form the mixture into patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs3. Bake the crab cakes in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

Avocado

Avocado

Avocado is a great substitute for mayo in crab cakes. It is a healthy alternative that provides a creamy texture and a rich flavor to the dish. Apart from being a great source of healthy fats, avocados are also loaded with vitamins and minerals that can benefit your overall health.

To use avocado as a substitute for mayo in crab cakes, simply mash a ripe avocado and use it as a binding agent in place of the mayo. You can also add some lime juice and salt to enhance the flavor and balance out the creaminess of the avocado.

Here are some benefits of using avocado instead of mayo in crab cakes:

  • Avocado is a healthier alternative to mayo as it is lower in fat and calories.
  • It is a great source of healthy fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
  • Avocado is loaded with vitamins and minerals such as potassium, vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.
  • It can help improve digestion and promote gut health due to its high fiber content.

Sour Cream

Sour cream is a popular substitute for mayo in crab cakes. Its tangy flavor and creamy texture make it a perfect ingredient to add to your crab cake recipe. Sour cream is a common ingredient in many recipes, and it can be found in most grocery stores.

When using sour cream as a substitute for mayo in crab cakes, it is important to note that it has a thinner consistency than mayo. To compensate for this, you may need to add a little extra flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the crab cake mixture together.

Another benefit of using sour cream is that it is lower in calories and fat than mayo. This makes it a healthier option for those who are conscious of their calorie intake. However, it is important to note that sour cream does contain some fat, so it should still be used in moderation.

Hummus

Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip that is made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It is a healthy and flavorful alternative to mayonnaise in crab cakes.

Hummus is a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It has a creamy texture and a nutty taste that complements the sweet flavor of crab meat.

To use hummus as a substitute for mayonnaise in crab cakes, simply replace the mayonnaise with an equal amount of hummus. You can also add some extra lemon juice and garlic to enhance the flavor of the hummus. You can also use hummus as a dipping sauce for your crab cakes.

Here are some of the benefits of using hummus as a substitute for mayonnaise in crab cakes:

  • Hummus is a healthier alternative to mayonnaise because it contains less fat and calories.
  • Hummus is a good source of plant-based protein and fiber.
  • Hummus has a unique flavor that adds depth to the taste of crab cakes.

Mustard

Mustard is a flavorful and tangy condiment that can be used as a substitute for mayo in crab cakes. It adds a unique flavor to the dish and can be used in combination with other ingredients to create a delicious binder.

One way to use mustard as a substitute for mayo is to mix it with Greek yogurt. This combination creates a creamy and tangy binder that works well with crab meat. To make this binder, mix 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard with 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt. You can adjust the amount of mustard according to your taste preferences.

Another way to use mustard is to mix it with sour cream. This combination creates a creamy and tangy binder that works well with crab meat. To make this binder, mix 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard with 1/4 cup of sour cream. You can adjust the amount of mustard according to your taste preferences.

Finally, you can use mustard as a standalone binder for crab cakes. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard with 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs. This creates a flavorful and crunchy binder that works well with crab meat.

Conclusion

Mayonnaise is a classic ingredient in crab cakes, but it’s not the only option. There are many substitutes that can be used to achieve a similar flavor and texture. Greek yogurt, sour cream, olive oil, avocado, and hummus are just a few examples of ingredients that can be used as substitutes for mayo in crab cakes.

When choosing a substitute, it’s important to consider the flavor profile of the dish and the dietary restrictions of those who will be eating it. For example, if you’re looking for a vegan option, cashew cream or hummus may be the way to go. If you’re looking for a healthier option, avocado or olive oil may be a better choice.

Ultimately, the best substitute for mayo in crab cakes will depend on your personal preferences and the specific recipe you’re using. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different substitutes to find the one that works best for you. With a little creativity, you can make delicious crab cakes without using mayo.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Mayo in Crab Cakes

The 5 Best Substitutes for Mayo in Crab Cakes

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • Greek yogurt
  • Sour cream
  • Aioli
  • Avocado
  • Mustard

Instructions
 

  • Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
  • Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.
jenny happy muncher
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Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.