Surimi crab sticks, often known as imitation crab meat, have become a staple ingredient in various Japanese dishes. These versatile, affordable, and easy-to-use seafood products are made from fish that has been processed into a paste and flavored to mimic the texture and taste of real crab meat. In Japanese cuisine, frozen surimi crab sticks offer a convenient way to recreate traditional dishes that would otherwise require more expensive or harder-to-find ingredients.

If you're curious about how to use frozen surimi crab sticks in your Japanese cooking, this guide will walk you through the best ways to incorporate them into your meals, from sushi rolls to soups and salads.

What is Surimi Crab Stick?

Before diving into the culinary uses, let's understand what surimi crab sticks are. Surimi refers to a Japanese word for "fish paste," and crab sticks are a type of surimi made to imitate the texture and flavor of crab meat. Typically, surimi crab sticks are made from white fish, such as pollock or cod, that has been minced, washed, and mixed with starch, egg whites, and seasonings. The mixture is then molded into thin sticks and lightly cooked or steamed.

While they don't taste exactly like real crab, their texture is remarkably similar, making them a popular substitute in many Japanese dishes.

Popular Dishes to Use Frozen Surimi Crab Stick in Japanese Cuisine

1. Crab Stick Sushi (Kani Maki)

Crab stick sushi, or kani maki, is a popular sushi roll that uses surimi crab sticks as a filling. This dish is simple to make, and you can easily replicate it at home with a few ingredients.

How to Make Crab Stick Sushi:

• Ingredients:

  • 1-2 frozen surimi crab sticks
  • 2 cups sushi rice, cooked and seasoned
  • 1 sheet of nori (seaweed)
  • Soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger (for serving)

• Instructions:

  1. Thaw the surimi crab sticks in the fridge or under cold running water.
  2. Cut the crab sticks into long, thin strips.
  3. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down.
  4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
  5. Lay the surimi crab sticks horizontally along the middle of the rice.
  6. Roll the sushi tightly using the sushi mat, pressing gently to secure the roll.
  7. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

This quick and easy dish is a great introduction to using surimi crab sticks in sushi, and it pairs wonderfully with a side of miso soup or a light salad.

2. Kani Salad (Crab Stick Salad)

Kani salad is a fresh, light salad that features surimi crab sticks combined with vegetables and a creamy dressing. It's often served as a starter or side dish in Japanese cuisine.

How to Make Kani Salad:

• Ingredients:

  • 2-3 frozen surimi crab sticks
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie mayo)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Chili flakes (optional for spice)

• Instructions:

  1. Thaw the surimi crab sticks and shred them into thin strands.
  2. In a bowl, combine the shredded crab sticks, cucumber, and avocado.
  3. In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar to make the dressing.
  4. Toss the salad ingredients with the dressing, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chili flakes if desired.
  6. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.

Kani salad is perfect for hot days or as a refreshing addition to any Japanese meal. The creamy dressing complements the mild flavor of the surimi crab sticks, making it a favorite for many.

3. Crab Stick Tempura

Tempura is a popular Japanese cooking style where ingredients are dipped in batter and deep-fried until crispy. Crab sticks make an excellent choice for tempura, giving you a crunchy exterior and a soft, flavorful center.

How to Make Crab Stick Tempura:

• Ingredients:

  • 6-8 frozen surimi crab sticks
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup cold sparkling water (for the batter)
  • Oil for deep-frying
  • Soy sauce and grated daikon radish for dipping (optional)

• Instructions:

  1. Thaw the surimi crab sticks and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix the flour, egg, and cold sparkling water to make a smooth batter. The batter should be light and airy.
  3. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Dip the surimi crab sticks into the batter, ensuring they are coated evenly.
  5. Carefully fry the crab sticks in the hot oil for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  7. Serve with soy sauce and grated daikon radish for dipping.

Crab stick tempura is a fun and delicious dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or part of a larger meal. The crispy texture contrasts nicely with the tender, flaky crab stick inside.

4. Kani Chawanmushi (Crab Stick Steamed Egg Custard)

Chawanmushi is a savory Japanese egg custard that is traditionally served as an appetizer or side dish. Adding surimi crab sticks gives the dish an extra boost of flavor and a touch of elegance.

How to Make Kani Chawanmushi:

• Ingredients:

  • 2-3 frozen surimi crab sticks
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup dashi stock
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon mirin
  • Salt to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Thaw the surimi crab sticks and cut them into small pieces.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Pour the egg mixture into small cups or ramekins.
  4. Gently drop in the chopped surimi crab sticks, distributing them evenly.
  5. Steam the custard over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the custard is set but still tender.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with a few sprigs of parsley or shiso leaves.

Kani chawanmushi is a delicate, comforting dish that showcases the versatility of surimi crab sticks in Japanese cooking.

5. Kani Soboro Don (Crab Stick Rice Bowl)

This simple rice bowl is made with surimi crab sticks sautéed in a savory sauce and served over steamed rice. It's quick to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

How to Make Kani Soboro Don:

• Ingredients:

  • 2-3 frozen surimi crab sticks
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mirin
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 bowl of steamed white rice
  • Green onions for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Thaw and shred the crab sticks into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a small pan, heat a little oil and sauté the shredded crab sticks for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to the pan, cooking for another minute until the sauce thickens.
  4. Serve the crab mixture over steamed rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

This simple yet satisfying rice bowl is a great way to use surimi crab sticks in a quick and filling meal.