Imitation crab sticks, also known as surimi, are a popular ingredient in Asian cooking and crab cakes. But knowing how long to cook them is key to getting the right texture. Undercooked and they will be gummy; overcooked and they can become rubbery. Follow these simple guidelines to learn exactly how long to cook imitation crab sticks so they come out tender and delicious every time.
The cooking time for imitation crab sticks depends on a few key factors:
– The thickness of the sticks
– Whether they are fresh, thawed, or frozen
– The cooking method being used
Thicker crab sticks take longer to cook through. Fresh or thawed sticks cook faster than frozen. And the cooking method makes a difference too. Quick-cooking methods like grilling, sauteing, or stir-frying require less time than gentle simmering or baking.
Keep reading for more details on exactly how long to cook imitation crab sticks based on their form and preparation method. Helpful time tables and cooking tips are also provided to ensure perfect crab sticks every time.
Fresh or Thawed Imitation Crab Sticks
When working with fresh or thawed imitation crab sticks, use the following cooking times as a guide:
Grilling or Pan Searing
– Thin sticks (1/4 inch or less): 1-2 minutes per side
– Thick sticks (over 1/4 inch): 2-3 minutes per side
The high heat of grilling or searing cooks the crab sticks quickly. Grill or pan sear over medium-high heat until lightly browned and heated through, flipping halfway.
Stir-Frying
– Thin strips: 1-2 minutes
– Thick strips: 2-3 minutes
– Small chunks: 3-4 minutes
To stir-fry, cut the crab sticks into thin strips or chunks. Cook over high heat while tossing constantly until the pieces are heated through.
Sauteing
– Thin slices: 2-3 minutes
– Thick slices: 3-4 minutes
– Chunks: 4-5 minutes
For sauteing, add a bit of oil or butter to a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the crab sticks until lightly browned and heated through, stirring frequently.
Simmering in Soup or Stew
– Thin strips or pieces: 3-4 minutes
– Thick strips or chunks: 5-7 minutes
Add imitation crab sticks at the end of cooking soups, stews, and braises. Gently simmer until heated through.
Baking
– Thin sticks (1/4 inch or less): 4-7 minutes at 375°F
– Thick sticks (over 1/4 inch): 7-10 minutes at 375°F
Arrange crab sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake until lightly browned and heated through. Flip halfway for even cooking.
Frozen Imitation Crab Sticks
When working with frozen crab sticks, they will need a little more time to cook through:
Grilling or Pan Searing
– Thin sticks (1/4 inch or less): 2-3 minutes per side
– Thick sticks (over 1/4 inch): 3-4 minutes per side
Cook over medium-high heat until browned and heated through, flipping halfway.
Stir-Frying
– Thin strips: 2-3 minutes
– Thick strips: 3-4 minutes
– Small chunks: 4-5 minutes
Toss constantly over high heat until thawed and cooked through.
Sauteing
– Thin slices: 3-4 minutes
– Thick slices: 4-5 minutes
– Chunks: 5-7 minutes
Saute over medium-high heat, stirring often, until thawed and heated through.
Simmering in Soup or Stew
– Thin strips or pieces: 5-7 minutes
– Thick strips or chunks: 7-10 minutes
Gently simmer frozen crab sticks until thawed and cooked through.
Baking
– Thin sticks (1/4 inch or less): 7-10 minutes at 375°F
– Thick sticks (over 1/4 inch): 10-12 minutes at 375°F
Bake from frozen on a sheet pan until crab sticks are heated through.
Cooking Tips
Follow these tips for perfect imitation crab sticks every time:
– If pan searing or grilling, brush the sticks with oil or melted butter first to prevent sticking.
– Cut thicker sticks horizontally before cooking to reduce the cooking time.
– Add a minute or two to the cooking times if you are preparing a large batch.
– Check that crab sticks are opaque throughout when cooked. Any translucency means they need a bit more time.
– Be careful not to overcook. Imitation crab can become rubbery if cooked too long.
– Allow baked or grilled crab sticks to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking – the insides will continue heating.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Imitation crab is safe to eat when it reaches 145°F.
Recommended Recipes
Get cooking with these delicious recipes using imitation crab sticks:
Imitation Crab Salad
This salad combines imitation crab with crunchy vegetables and a creamy dressing.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Imitation crab sticks, chopped | 1 pound |
| Celery, diced | 1 stalk |
| Red onion, diced | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Chop crab sticks into 1/2 inch pieces.
- In a bowl, mix together crab sticks, celery, onion, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Chill salad for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Stir-Fried Imitation Crab and Vegetables
A quick and easy stir-fry loaded with crisp-tender vegetables.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Imitation crab sticks | 1 pound |
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups |
| Red bell pepper | 1 cup diced |
| Baby corn | 1 cup |
| Green onions | 1/4 cup sliced |
| Oil | 2 Tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 3 Tbsp |
Instructions:
- Cut crab sticks into 1 inch chunks.
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
- Add broccoli and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Add bell pepper, baby corn, and crab. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- Add green onions and soy sauce. Cook for 1 minute more until crab is heated through.
- Serve over rice.
Baked Imitation Crab Cakes
These crab cakes can be served as appetizers or entrées.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Imitation crab sticks, chopped | 1 lb |
| Bread crumbs | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Green onions, diced | 2 Tbsp |
| Old Bay seasoning | 2 tsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 Tbsp |
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together all ingredients until thoroughly combined.
- Form into patties approximately 1/2 inch thick.
- Arrange on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
FAQs
Get answers to your most common questions about cooking imitation crab sticks:
Can you eat imitation crab sticks right out of the package?
Imitation crab sticks are fully cooked when purchased, so technically they can be eaten right out of the package. However, for best flavor and texture, it is still recommended to heat them through using one of the cooking methods above, especially if the crab sticks were previously frozen.
Do imitation crab sticks need to be thawed before cooking?
If the imitation crab sticks are frozen, thawing first can help reduce the cooking time slightly. It is not strictly necessary, however. Frozen crab sticks can go directly into the cooking method of choice. Just increase the cooking time a bit to allow the crab to thaw and heat through.
What is the white meat made of in imitation crab sticks?
The white meat inside imitation crab sticks is made of fish paste, called surimi. It typically contains pollock or other white fish, along with additives like egg whites or starch to bind it together. The red outer layer is usually made from shellfish extract.
Are imitation crab sticks healthy to eat?
Imitation crab is low in calories and fat compared to real crab meat. It provides protein and some vitamins and minerals. However, the processing removes a lot of the nutrients found in whole seafood. Imitation crab also contains lots of sodium, so it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those with dietary restrictions.
Can you refreeze imitation crab sticks after thawing?
It is not recommended to refreeze imitation crab after it has been thawed. Refreezing can lead to loss of flavor and the crab sticks developing an off texture. Cook thawed crab sticks within 1-2 days and discard any unused portions.
Conclusion
Mastering the perfect cooking times is essential for enjoying the fabulous flavor of imitation crab sticks. Follow the guidelines above for grilling, sauteing, baking, and more based on whether your crab sticks are fresh, thawed, or frozen. In just minutes, you can have restaurant-quality results. Use crab sticks to top salads, fill wraps, mix into fried rice, or form into juicy cakes. With the right techniques, the possibilities for delicious crab recipes are endless.