Image by Louis Hansel

Crab rolls

There's something about crab rolls that just can't be denied - they're simply a joy. With their light and flavourful texture, crab rolls are a perfect way to add some variety to any meal. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or as part of a larger feast, these succulent treats are sure to be a hit!

Crab rolls


The star of the show is the juicy and fragrant crab meat, which is enveloped in a crispy wrapping of your choice. The traditional Japanese way of making crab rolls is to use unagi, or freshwater eel. This provides a nice crunchy outside layer with a fishy flavour that pairs perfectly with the sweetest of crabs. But if you don't fancy unagi or are looking for a lighter option, you can opt for tempura batter too, which makes a delightful crispy exterior that gives the roll a hint of a fried bite.

Once rolled, the crab rolls are then often glazed with a sweet and piquant sauce to provide even more flavor. You can pick your own favorite combination of sauces or go with a classic teriyaki or soy-based glaze. You can also opt for a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing - there really is no wrong way to enjoy crab rolls.

The juiciness of the flaky crab paired with the crunchy exterior and zesty glaze make these small morsels truly sing with deliciousness. Eating crab rolls is always a special experience, as it allows you to wrap your hands around something that is fresh, flavorful and comforting all at once.

Whether you whip up your own crab rolls at home or dine out to enjoy them, these little bundles of joy won't let you down. Try them today and experience the wonder of the ever-popular crab roll.

The origin of Crab rolls

Ah, the creamy, succulent, and ever-so decadent Crab roll. It's a dish that has taken the world by storm, amassing quite a following over the years - and for good reason! But what is the incredible history behind this beloved dish?

As it turns out, the Crab roll can trace its roots back to a small Massachusetts seaside town called Plymouth. It is here, in the 1700s, that the original recipe was developed. The story goes that a local fisherman was looking to showcase some of his freshly harvested crabmeat in a unique way. He took inspiration from the region's signature sandwich (the lobster roll) and crafted a new and delicious variation - the Crab roll.

The original recipe was simple but effective: chunks of cooked crabmeat lightly dressed with mayonnaise, celery and spices, nestled into a split-top New England style hotdog bun. This combination of flavors was an instant hit with locals, and as word spread, so too did the popularity of the Crab roll.

Nowadays, one can find numerous variations of the classic version. There are sweet and spicy renditions featuring flavorful sauces and dressings, as well as more extravagant creations involving deep-fried patties or piled high with all sorts of toppings. And yet, no matter how many new interpretations come along, the original recipe still retains its beloved status in many parts of the world.

So there you have it - a brief history of the beloved Crab roll. The next time you take a bite of one of these marvels, take a moment to appreciate the fact that it has been around since the 1700s, and that it has withstood the test of time. From the shores of Plymouth to the kitchens and top restaurants around the world, the Crab roll is here to stay.

FAQs about Crab rolls

How do you roll crabs?

Crabs don't usually need to be rolled. They can be picked up and eaten with the hands.


Is a crab roll cooked?

No, a crab roll is usually served cold.


What is a crab roll made of?

A crab roll is typically a sandwich made with a split-top hot dog bun and filled with a mixture of crab meat, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and seasonings. Some recipes also include lettuce and tomato.


What is an imitation crab roll?

An imitation crab roll is a sushi roll typically made with imitation crab meat (surimi), which is a type of fish paste made with surimi fish, water, egg whites, sugar, and other flavorings. It is typically served alongside avocado, cucumber, and other vegetables and can be served either hot or cold.


Types of Crab rolls

If you're looking for an interesting yet delectable dish to add to your repertoire, look no further than the succulent and savory crab roll. This classic maritime delicacy has been delighting seafood lovers for generations due to its unique blend of textures and flavors. While there are many variations of this beloved dish, depending on where it is served, all crab rolls share a common thread – they all feature the unforgettable flavor of succulent crabmeat enveloped in a soft, delicate shell.

The most traditional version of a crab roll consists of a sweet bun filled with tender chunks of jumbo lump crab meat. A light dressing of mayonnaise is usually added, giving the sandwich a creamy finish. This simple recipe is perfect for summertime or when you want a light meal without too much fuss. Some restaurants will also add a variety of herbs and spices for an added kick of flavor.

For those looking for something a bit more decadent, there is the New England-style lobster roll. Here, succulent lobster meat is dressed with mayonnaise and placed between a lightly toasted split-top bun. The addition of diced celery and a squirt of lemon juice adds a zesty bite to the sandwich. For an even richer result, opt for a full-size lobster roll made with clarified butter.

Another popular variation of crab rolls is the Maryland-style crab cake roll. These sandwiches feature a traditional lump crab cake on the inside and a fried bun on the outside. The exterior of the bun is cooked until crisp, while the inside contains warm, creamy crab cake. This combination of textures and flavors truly sets this sandwich apart from the rest.

Finally, for those wanting something truly exotic, there is the San Francisco style Dungeness crab roll. Here, fresh Dungeness crab meat is combined with sautéed vegetables and a hint of garlic, then rolled into a soft tortilla wrap. A drizzle of garlic aioli adds a creamy finish to this unique and delicious dish.

No matter what type of crab roll you choose, these savory morsels will be sure to satisfy. Be sure to grab one the next time you're near the coast.