Imitation crab dip, sometimes called mock crab dip or krab dip, is a popular appetizer or snack made from imitation crab meat. Despite its name, imitation crab meat does not actually contain any crab. Instead, it is made from fish that has been processed and flavored to resemble the taste and texture of real crab meat. Keep reading to learn exactly what imitation crab dip is made of and how it compares to real crab dip.
Imitation Crab Meat Ingredients
Imitation crab, or surimi, is made from fish that has been finely pulverized and formed into the desired shape. The specific type of white fish used can vary, but common options include pollock, cod, tilapia, and hake. These are mild-flavored white fish with a delicate, flaky texture that can be easily shaped. While real crab has a naturally sweet, briny flavor, the fish used in surimi has a much milder taste. To make it taste more like crabmeat, chemicals and additives are used.
Here are some of the most common ingredients found in imitation crab meat:
- Fish – Finely pulverized white fish like pollock or cod forms the base.
- Starch – Starches like wheat, rice, or potato help bind the fish paste together.
- Egg white – Helps bind ingredients and contributes to the characteristic bouncy texture.
- Sugar – Added to enhance sweetness.
- Salt – For flavoring.
- MSG – Monosodium glutamate is added for umami flavor.
- Natural and artificial flavors – Crab-like tastes come from flavors derived from crustaceans and artificial flavor chemicals.
- Carmine – Red food coloring made from crushed cochineal insects.
- Sodium nitrate – Preservative that also adds color.
- Phosphates – Used to retain moisture and modify texture.
As you can see, real crab contains just one ingredient – crab. Imitation crab meat goes through extensive processing with many additives to recreate the taste, color, and texture of real crabmeat using an affordable white fish base. Manufacturers are required to list “imitation crab” or “crab flavored” on the label so consumers know it does not contain real crab.
How is Imitation Crab Dip Made?
To make imitation crab dip, the pre-formed imitation crab meat is combined with various ingredients to make a creamy, dip-able appetizer. Here is a look at the typical ingredients found in popular imitation crab dip recipes:
- Imitation crab – Shredded or chopped into small pieces to distribute throughout dip.
- Cream cheese – Provides a rich, creamy base for the dip.
- Mayonnaise – Adds moisture and creamy texture.
- Lemon juice – Helps balance flavor with some tartness.
- Onion – Finely minced and sauteed for flavor.
- Garlic – Minced or powdered garlic adds a kick.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning.
- Parsley – Fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness.
- Old Bay seasoning – The blend of spices flavors the dip like a crab cake.
- Worcestershire sauce – Provides umami depth.
The ingredients are combined until fully mixed and creamy. Some recipes also fold in other add-ins like chopped bell pepper, hot sauce, or cheddar cheese. The creamy imitation crab mixture can be served chilled, warm, or hot baked for a bubbly, broiled topping. It is classically served with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Nutrition of Imitation Crab Dip
One of the biggest differences between real crab dip and imitation crab dip is the nutrition profile. Here is a nutritional comparison of 2 tablespoons of each type of dip:
| Nutrient | Imitation Crab Dip | Real Crab Dip |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 36 | 14 |
| Total Fat | 2g | 0g |
| Sodium | 125mg | 46mg |
| Protein | 2g | 2g |
| Carbs | 1g | 0g |
As you can see, imitation crab dip contains significantly more calories, fat, and sodium compared to real crab dip. This is largely due to the mayonnaise, cream cheese, and imitation crab ingredients which are higher in fat and sodium than pure crab meat. Real crab dip made from lump crab meat is low calorie, low fat, and low sodium by comparison. The protein content is similar between the two dips.
Cost Comparison of Imitation vs. Real Crab Dip
Another major difference between imitation crab dip and real crab dip is the cost. Imitation crab costs a fraction of the price of real crab meat. Here is a typical price comparison:
- Imitation crab: $4 per 1 lb package
- Real lump crab meat: $20 per 1 lb
This means you can make imitation crab dip for about $1.50 to $2 total, compared to a real crab dip costing $10 to $15. Even when buying crab meat at the lowest off-peak prices, imitation crab dip is far cheaper. This makes it an affordable and appealing appetizer option for parties or potlucks when you need to serve a crowd. However, for a special occasion or if you want a low calorie dip, splurging on real crab meat is worth the price.
Taste Comparison
In terms of taste, imitation crab dip has a distinctly fishy and salty flavor that is difficult to mistake for real crab. The cream cheese and mayonnaise provide a rich, creamy base while the imitation crab gives it a seafood taste. However, real lump crab meat has a sweetdelicate, moist flavor that imitation crab cannot truly replicate. The texture of real crab also stands apart with its signature flaky, meaty, and juicy mouthfeel. Overall, while imitation crab dip has a pleasant taste, side by side with real crab dip the difference is noticeable.
When is it Acceptable to Use Imitation Crab Dip?
Here are some occasions when imitation crab dip is perfectly acceptable and often expected:
- Informal get togethers – Serve as an easy, inexpensive appetizer for parties, game day, or potlucks.
- Kid-friendly event – Kids love the mild, salty flavor of imitation crab dip. It’s a familiar and unintimidating option.
- Large gatherings – When you need to serve a crowd, imitation crab dip stretches your budget.
- Finger food – The flavor and texture works well with crackers or chips as finger food.
As long as guests know to expect an imitation crab rather than real crab dip, it can be a delicious appetizer option in many relaxed situations. No one expects gourmet all the time, so imitation crab dip definitely has its place.
When Should You Avoid Serving Imitation Crab Dip?
Here are some occasions when it is better to splurge on real crab dip:
- Special occasions – For celebrations, holidays, or fancy events go for real crab.
- Seafood lovers – Connoisseurs will notice the difference in flavor.
- Low carb/low calorie – Imitation crab dip is higher in carbs, calories, and sodium than real crab dip.
- Food allergies – Imitation crab contains fish, gluten, and MSG some guests may want to avoid.
- High end appetizers – For gourmet, upscale appetizers use real crab.
The flavor and nutrition limitations mean imitation crab dip is not ideal for every situation. When you want to serve the best quality or healthiest option, pay the premium for real crab meat.
Can You Make Imitation Crab Dip Without Mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise is a key ingredient in most imitation crab dip recipes. It provides moisture, fat, and the signature creamy texture. However, you can absolutely make imitation crab dip without mayonnaise in several ways:
- Greek yogurt – Replace mayo 1:1 with thick, strained yogurt.
- Sour cream – Has a similar richness and works as a swap.
- Cream cheese – Double up on the cream cheese for thickness.
- Ricotta cheese – Use in place of about half the mayo.
- Cottage cheese – Puree until smooth for a creamy base.
- Silken tofu – Blend into a mayo-like consistency.
When omitting mayo, you may need to adjust other seasonings. Lemon juice and vinegar can add tanginess while mustard brings creamy texture. Overall, you can certainly enjoy imitation crab dip with plenty of creaminess and flavor even without the mayonnaise.
Imitation Crab Dip Recipe
This popular imitation crab dip recipe combines cream cheese, mayo, and imitation crab meat for an easy creamy dip. Feel free to tweak and customize to your tastes.
Ingredients
- 8oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 lb imitation crab meat
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese and mayonnaise until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Chop the imitation crab meat into small pieces, then stir into the cream cheese mixture.
- Add the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Fold in the chopped fresh parsley.
- Refrigerate dip for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Conclusion
Imitation crab dip is a flavorful, creamy appetizer made from a combination of imitation crab and dairy ingredients like cream cheese and mayonnaise. While not quite as delicious or healthy as real crab dip, it can be a budget-friendly option for parties or other large gatherings. Just don’t try to pass it off as real crab! When served in its place, imitation crab dip has its purposes for providing crowd-pleasing flavor on a shoestring budget. But for special occasions or health-conscious appetites, only real lump crab meat will do.