Ingredients:

  • 8 oz block full fat Cream Cheese, fully softened
  • 1 cup good quality Mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup full fat Sour Cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh squeezed Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 1/2 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground Black Pepper
  • Fine Sea Salt, To taste
  • 1 lb Imitation Crab Meat (Surimi), shredded
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Chives, finely chopped, for garnish
  • Pinch Paprika (or Smoked Paprika), for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Imitation Crab: Remove the imitation crab from its packaging. Using your fingers or a fork, shred the crab into fine, fluffy flakes. Reserve 1/4 cup (60 g) of the shredded crab for garnish later, if desired.
  2. Create the Creamy Base: Place the fully softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream into a large mixing bowl. Using a spatula or mixer, mix until the mixture is completely smooth, lump-free, and homogenous.
  3. Season the Base: Pour in the fresh lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until incorporated. Sprinkle in the Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the spice is evenly distributed. Taste the base and adjust salt if necessary, remembering the crab itself is seasoned.
  4. Fold and Chill: Gently fold the main portion of the shredded imitation crab into the seasoned creamy base using a rubber spatula. Mix only until just combined; avoid over-mixing. Refrigerate the dip for a minimum of 30 minutes, or ideally 2-3 hours, allowing the spices and lemon juice to penetrate the crab and the mixture to firm up.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Scoop the chilled dip into your serving dish or platter. Sprinkle the chopped fresh chives and a light dusting of paprika over the top. Serve immediately with your choice of crackers or vegetables.