Reader Comments

I agree with FRBL that Wegman’s does have as authentic a crab cake as I have tasted in many years, outside of the Eastern Shore and Maryland, in general. I also agree with Charles that liberties are taken even there.  A worthy quest: The “perfect” crab cake!

Having lived in Philly for the last 20 years but a very frequent visitor to the Eastern Shore (I would LOVE to live there, more than anywhere in the world), I can certainly relate to this article.

Firstly, crab cakes outside the Chesapeake region are rarely authentic - usually way too much breading/cracker crumbs.  And often way too much other stuff - peppers, onions, et cetera. The only thing close to “real” crab cakes were the “Ultimate crab cakes” found at Wegmans.  (One of many virtues Wegmans possesses!)

Secondly, Philadelphians should know better because we suffer the same fate when it comes to authentic cheesesteaks.  All across the country and perhaps even globally sandwiches called “Philly cheesesteaks” are no where close to authentic.  Again, usually things added to make them fancier than they ought to be.

Alas, I have just moved to Ohio and will miss authentic crab cakes and authentic cheesesteaks dearly.  I know I can get crab cakes delivered from the Chesapeake area (and even Shore Boys best-ever crab soup) - it’s all too expensive for me.

I guess I’ll just have to live off of my fond memories - and my continued subscription to Chesapeake Life magazine…

My eyes immediately went to this article - it was a great story but lacked the finish line I expected. I’m 63 and grew up in Baltimore spending much of my years on the Eastern Shore. I know a good crab cake and agree that liberties have indeed been taken with recipes both inside & outside the Chesapeake Bay region. Also I agree with the author that a great crab cake has very few & simple ingredients with the flavor of the crab enhanced never overpowered. But after all was said & done - in the end I was expecting at least one of his favorite recipes. After all, that’s the only way to pass on the traditional way to make an outstanding crab cake. Disappointed but love the magazine.

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