Jonah Crab Roll with Old Bay Butter

Think the lobster roll reigns supreme in the world of seafood sandwiches? It’s time to make room for a new contender. Sweet, delicate Jonah crab meat is ready to take center stage in a buttery-toasted roll, bringing bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

Of course, no great seafood roll is complete without butter — preferably infused with Old Bay for just the right kick of spice and seasoning. Because when it comes to seafood, flavor is everything.

In this blog, we’re diving into a rich, flavorful Jonah crab roll recipe packed with expert tips and a few tricks to elevate your seafood game. Whether you’re a die-hard seafood lover or just looking to impress at your next cookout, this one’s for you. Grab a bib, it’s about to get delicious.

What Makes Jonah Crab a Hidden Gem?

Not all crabs get to be the stars, but this one? It's the underdog waiting for its moment in the spotlight. Found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic, Jonah Crab has made a quiet stir in the seafood arena, and rightfully so.

Among crabs, Jonah crab shares family ties with blue crab but is rather meatier, sweeter, and more flavorful, and the perfect pair for a rich buttery sauce. Not as heavy as Dungeness crab nor as salty as stone crab, Jonah crab sits comfortably in between as the perfect middle ground for seafood lovers who enjoy a hint of sweetness without the overwhelming flavor.

So why do you need to put Jonah crab recipes on your seafood menu? Besides being delicious and budget-friendly, it can also be sustainably farmed. Be it butter crab rolls or an upgrade to the seafood class at the potluck, the possibilities with crab are endless. 

Ingredients for the Perfect Butter Crab Roll

A good butter crab roll is not simply the result of shoving some crab meat into a bun and leaving it at that. It's a medley of flavors and textures, making sure each bite is as indulgent from the start to the end. From using the freshest Jonah crab meat to making the perfect Old Bay butter sauce, every single element is crucial in making the roll full of flavor.

Find the Best Jonah Crab Meat

Not all crab meat is equal, and this may very well matter during the making of the ultimate butter crab roll. Usually, one may either get fresh or frozen Jonah crab meat. Of course, your best bet is fresh meat; it is sweeter and saltier and has the perfect fresh flavor. However, a good frozen Jonah crab meat will still do great. 

Remember to thaw it properly and season the frozen meat further to soak up all the crab's flavor and enhance it. Before using it, check for any last bits of shell. Nothing ruins a buttery bite more than a surprise crunch. If the meat comes in lump form, gently tear the lumps into smaller pieces or cut some slit so that it soaks in all of that Old Bay butter flavor.

The Role of Old Bay Butter in This Recipe

If there is a seasoning that knows how to treat seafood, it is Old Bay. With its blend of celery salt, paprika, and just enough spice, it is a must-have for each crab recipe, Old Bay is essential. It brings out the sweetness in the crab without overshadowing it—balancing the flavor that every seafood lover cherishes. When melted with Old Bay, the flavor enhances and richens to coat every piece of tender crab meat and add flavor, keeping it deliciously moist. 

The Best Bread for a Traditional Butter Crab Roll

A butter crab roll—particularly the traditional one—is only as good as its vessel. The split-top roll! These delightfully fluffy rolls are slightly sweet and perfectly shaped for toasting, allowing the crab on the inside to shine while providing just the right amount of sandwich-like structure.

Can't find split-top rolls or run out of them? No worries! Brioche buns, potato rolls, or even a lightly toasted baguette will do too. The idea is to choose a bread that is sturdy enough to hold the filling whilst being soft enough to let those buttery flavors seep in. 

Step-by-Step Jonah Crab Roll Recipe

Getting the rich, buttery flavor of the Jonah crab into a well-toasted roll while maintaining a balanced flavor profile is an art. Old Bay seasoning and a squeeze of lemon dramatically improve the Jonah crab and its rich, buttery taste to just the right degree of spice, all whilst the roll brings everything together. Follow these directives, and you will sparkle with your very own restaurant-quality Jonah crab roll. 

Ingredients Required

Before we begin the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for the perfect butter crab roll recipe: 

• 1 lb Jonah crab meat (either fresh or high-quality frozen and thawed a few hours beforehand)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
• Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 4 split-top rolls (or brioche buns)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions for Perfectly Buttery Jonah Crab

1. Melt the Butter: On medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a pan. Set aside the last tablespoon for toasting the rolls.
2. Add Old Bay & Lemon Juice: Stir in the Old Bay seasoning, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, allowing these two flavors to mingle together for about 30 seconds.
3. Warm the Crab Meat: Gently introduce the Jonah crab meat into the pan, tossing to coat with the seasoned butter. Warm up the meat for another 2-3 minutes—be careful not to overcook it!
4. Season: If needed, season with salt and pepper. If you need additional creaminess, stir in a little mayo before assembling the perfect butter crab roll.

Assembling the Jonah Crab Roll 

1. Toast the Rolls: Melt another tablespoon of butter in a separate pan. With the cut side down, toast the rolls until golden brown.
2. Fill with Crab: Generously spoon warm buttery Jonah crab mixture into each toasted roll.
3. Garnish for Perfection: Top with fresh chives and an additional sprinkle of Old Bay.
4. Serve & Enjoy: Best enjoyed with crispy fries, fresh salad, or a side of coleslaw, uniting in the sweetness of the seafood.

With the simple steps this guide provides you, you will surely pull off making the best butter crab roll recipe. It is certainly rich, flavored, and laden with seafood goodness! 

Pairing Your Jonah Crab Roll with the Perfect Sides

A great meal is not just about the main dish, it is an experience. Sides and drinks have the potential to take your butter crab roll from being just delicious to an enchanting experience. Whether you're sticking to classic sides or getting a bit adventurous, here is how to complete your seafood feast.

Classic New England Sides

Sometimes simplicity is the best way. Classic New England sides allow the rich, buttery crab roll to shine while contrasting brilliantly in terms of texture and flavor. A few timeless classics are as below:

• Crisp Coleslaw: The crunch and slight tang from the slaw balance out the butteriness of the Jonah crab roll. A vinegar-based slaw keeps things light while creamy versions add richness.
• Kettle-Cooked Chips: A thick, crispy handful load of potato chips provides a satisfying crunch without overwhelming the subtle, delicate flavor of the crab.
• Pickles or Pickled Veggies: The acidity of pickled cucumbers, onions, or even jalapenos cuts through the richness of the butter crab roll, providing a refreshing effect for your palate.

Beverage Pairings to Enhance the Flavor

You need the perfect drink to cut down the richness of the rolls and not just quench but satisfy your thirst. Here is what to sip on:

• Crisp White Wines: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay adds brightness to the dish, enhancing the crab's natural sweetness.
• Light & Hoppy Beers: A nice cold pilsner or citrusy IPA gives just the right amount of bitterness to balance out that buttery richness.
• Refreshing Cocktails: A classic gin and tonic or a citrusy Paloma gives the right acidity and effervescence to cleanse the palate between bites.

With the perfectly paired side and beverage selection, it feels like you are taking a trip to the crab roll haven by the shore, minus the sand. 

Butter Crab Roll vs. Lobster Roll: What’s the Difference?

Crab roll or lobster roll? An age-old debate of seafood. While lobster has always got the spotlight when it comes to rolls, Jonah crab is the true underdog for shellfish, adding unusual twists to the classic sandwich. So what are the differences between the two, and when should you opt for a butter crab roll over a lobster roll? Let's break it down.

Taste and Texture Comparison

On the first bite, Jonah crab and lobster might taste the same, but it is the subtle differences that allow them to shine in their ways:

• Flavor: Lobster is a rich, slightly briny meat while Jonah crab is light, sweet, and delicate. The natural sweetness of Jonah crab plays nicely with the buttery goodness associated with a classic roll.
• Texture: While lobster meat is firmer and meatier, Jonah crab has a tender, flaky texture that melts in your mouth. This leads to a more delicate, sumptuous crab roll that is heavenly to bite into.

When to Choose a Jonah Crab Roll Over a Lobster Roll

There are times when indulging in a butter crab roll makes more sense. Here are some reasons you might be tempted to turn down the iconic lobster in favor of a crab roll:

• Light and delicate: The lightness of the crab does away with the feeling of punishment for eating a roll full of seafood. If meaty and dense doesn’t sound like your current vibe, Jonah crab should be your pick.
• More bang for your buck: We're not tryin' to rob the bank here; lobster rolls cost a little too much dough. Jonah Crab shows you all the luxury without all that high pricing.
• Sustainable: Jonah crab is usually viewed as a more sustainable choice of seafood, thereby offering an environmentally concerned alternative for the conscience eater.
• So whether for the taste that is easy on the budget or just to switch it up, a butter crab roll is one seriously delicious choice that really deserves a shot into stardom! 

Where to Buy Premium Jonah Crab for Your Recipes

Not all crab meat is made equal. Freshly sourced Jonah crab’s natural sweetness and tender texture create the irresistible butter crab rolls. Further, aquaculture aims to provide sustainable seafood that is good not just for your plate but also for the oceans. By recognizing and supporting suppliers that favor ethical fishing practices, we ensure that generations to come will also be able to enjoy delicious Jonah crab recipes.

Get Maine Lobster: Your Source for Fresh Jonah Crab

Get Maine Lobster carries some of the finest seafood near you. In quality, we deliver fresh seafood right from the coast, guaranteeing the freshest catch for your culinary needs. Whether you want to make butter crab rolls or explore some culinary magic with Jonah crab recipes, our selection will always guarantee premium taste and texture.

How to Order Jonah Crab From Get Maine Lobster

With the straightforward online shopping experience at Get Maine Lobster, ordering our products is easy! Simply check out the Shop page, select what you need, and have it delivered! Just a click or two, and you'll be preparing the butter crab roll of your life at home!