Asian Mini Crab Cakes

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Flake the crabmeat with a fork in a medium bowl; stir in 1/4 cup of the mayonnaise and the scallions, the soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of the wasabi, and the zest. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the bread crumbs. Cover with plastic wrap; chill 1 hour.

   Step 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and pepper; set aside. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon water; set aside. In a shallow bowl, stir together the sesame seeds and remaining 1/2 cup bread crumbs.

   Step 3

   Form 1 scant tablespoon crab mixture into a ball; dip in the seasoned flour. Flatten into a 3/4-inch-high cake about 1 1/4 inches in diameter. Repeat with the remaining crab mixture. Dip the cakes in the egg mixture, then roll in the bread crumb mixture.

   Step 4

   Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Add half the crab cakes; cook, turning once, until golden and crisp on both sides, about 1 1/2 minutes. Using a slotted spatula, transfer to paper-towel–lined plates to drain. Repeat with the remaining cakes, adding more oil if needed. Let cool completely.

   Step 5

   Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze (uncovered) until firm, about 1 hour. Transfer to an airtight container; freeze up to 6 weeks.

   Step 6

   To serve, preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the crab cakes on an ungreased baking sheet, and bake until heated through, 10 to 14 minutes.

   Step 7

   Meanwhile, stir together the remaining 3 tablespoons mayonnaise and 1 1/2 teaspoons wasabi. Using a vegetable peeler, make 24 2 × 3/4-inch ribbons from the cucumber. Fold each into thirds.

   Step 8

   Dot each crab cake with 1/2 teaspoon wasabi mayonnaise; top with cucumber and ginger.