Crab Stuffed Mushrooms - A Perfect Air Fryer Delight!
Mushrooms are a favoured choice for many meals due to their versatility and delightful texture. Pair them with the rich, succulent taste of crab, and you have a match made in culinary heaven! Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a fancy starter, these crab-stuffed mushrooms are a winner. And the best part? You can prepare them easily using an air fryer.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
The air fryer is a remarkable kitchen gadget that has revolutionised how we cook at home, particularly in the UK where kitchen space might often be a premium. By circulating hot air around the food, it replicates the effects of frying without the need for excessive oil, making it a healthier choice. Not only does it cook food quickly, but it also provides a unique crispiness that's hard to achieve in a conventional oven.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 12 large white mushrooms
- 150g crab meat (fresh or canned, ensure it's well-drained if canned)
- 100g cream cheese, softened
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 50g grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Preparation:
1. Preparing the Mushrooms
Begin by cleaning your mushrooms. Use a damp paper towel to wipe each mushroom, removing any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and set them aside — these will be chopped and added to the stuffing.
2. Making the Crab Filling
In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until translucent. Add the chopped mushroom stems and cook for another 2 minutes.
In a bowl, combine the sautéed onion mixture with crab meat, cream cheese, parmesan cheese, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Stuffing the Mushrooms
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C. Spoon the crab mixture generously into each mushroom cap, pressing down slightly to secure the filling.
4. Air Frying
Place the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry them for about 8-10 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
These crab-stuffed mushrooms are best served warm. They make an excellent starter or can be used as a sophisticated canapé. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle with additional chopped parsley or a light drizzle of lemon juice before serving.