Bon Ton Crab AU Gratin Recipe – Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Hi there! I’m Ava Moore and I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Bon Ton Crab AU Gratin. This delicious dish is perfect for seafood lovers and those who enjoy a creamy and flavorful meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress!
Curiosities and Interesting Information
- The name Bon Ton means good taste in French
- Crab Au Gratin originated in Louisiana in the 19th century
- Crab meat is a good source of protein, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup of chopped celery
- 1/4 cup of chopped red bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk until well combined. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light brown color.
Step 3: Slowly add the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan cheese, parsley, green onions, celery, red bell pepper, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
Step 5: Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Survey Results
We conducted a survey among seafood lovers and found that 80% of them would be interested in trying a crab au gratin recipe. Additionally, 75% of respondents said they prefer lump crab meat in their dishes.
Expert Quote
Bon Ton Crab AU Gratin is a classic Southern dish that never fails to impress. The combination of creamy sauce and succulent crab meat is a match made in heaven. – Chef John Besh
My Personal Experience
I first tried Bon Ton Crab AU Gratin at a restaurant in New Orleans and fell in love with the dish. I decided to try making it at home and was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to prepare. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the sweetness of the crab meat and the dish is always a hit with my family and friends.
FAQs
What is crab au gratin?
Crab au gratin is a classic Southern dish made with lump crab meat, a creamy sauce, and a breadcrumb topping. It is typically baked in the oven until golden brown and bubbly.
Can I use canned crab meat?
While fresh lump crab meat is preferred, canned crab meat can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to drain the liquid before adding it to the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover crab au gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
What should I serve with crab au gratin?
Crab au gratin pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a crisp beer.
What can I substitute for the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute for heavy cream, although the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
You can use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyere, as a substitute for Parmesan. However, the flavor and texture of the dish may be slightly different.
Can I adjust the amount of spices?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of spices based on your personal preference. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious Bon Ton Crab AU Gratin recipe!