Ingredients
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250 g. crab sticks, thawed if frozen
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3 tbsp sunflower oil
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2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
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1/2 tsp sweet paprika
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1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
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1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Directions
Crab sticks are often served cold, but a few minutes in a warm pan completely changes them. The edges become lightly golden, the centres stay soft and the garlic, paprika and lemon give them far more flavour than you might expect from such a simple recipe.
This is one of those quick dishes I turn to when I want something warm and savoury without spending too much time in the kitchen. It takes only 10 minutes from start to finish and needs just a handful of everyday ingredients.
Are crab sticks already cooked?
Most crab sticks are made from surimi, a seasoned white fish mixture that has already been cooked and shaped. This means they can usually be eaten cold, straight from the packet. Always check the instructions on the packaging, especially if you are using a frozen variety.
For this recipe, we are not cooking the crab sticks from raw. We are simply warming them gently and coating them with garlic, paprika, lemon and fresh parsley.
How to cook crab sticks in a pan
The most important thing is not to overcook them. Crab sticks are delicate and can become dry or begin to unravel if they stay over the heat for too long. Keep the pan over a medium heat, turn them carefully and cook them only until they are hot and lightly coloured.
Have all the ingredients ready before you begin because the recipe moves quickly. The garlic needs only a short time in the oil, and the lemon juice is added after the pan has been removed from the heat so that its fresh flavour is not lost.
Watch the crab stick recipe
The short video below shows the complete method and how the crab sticks should look when they are ready.
What to serve with pan-fried crab sticks
Serve them warm as a quick appetiser or light meal with toasted bread, a fresh green salad, steamed rice or roasted vegetables. A little extra lemon on the side is lovely, but taste them first, as the recipe already has plenty of freshness.
If you are looking for more easy crab stick recipes, try our crab stick noodles with pickles and mozzarella.
Steps
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1
Done
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Prepare the crab sticksRemove the crab sticks from their individual wrappers. If they are frozen, allow them to thaw completely, then pat them dry gently with kitchen paper. |
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2
Done
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Gently cook the garlicHeat the sunflower oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Do not let it brown, as burnt garlic will make the dish bitter. |
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3
Done
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Add the crab sticksPlace the crab sticks in the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes, then turn them carefully and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until hot and lightly golden at the edges. |
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4
Done
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SeasonSprinkle over the paprika, black pepper and a small amount of salt. Turn the crab sticks gently so that they are evenly coated, then cook for another 30 seconds. |
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5
Done
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Finish with lemon and parsleyRemove the pan from the heat. Pour over the lemon juice and sprinkle with the fresh parsley. Turn the crab sticks once more to coat them, then serve immediately while still warm. |
