Crabmeat Cobbler a.k.a. Crabmeat Au Gratin

6 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 35 m Total: 50 m Intermediate
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This was an interesting recipe for Maw-Maw. It was the 1st time that the word “cobbler” was used in a crabmeat recipe. In reviewing the recipe and the ingredients, one of the differences was the tomatoes. Another interesting ingredient was the Accent; Accent is a brand name for MSG. MSG is technically a flavor enhancer it activates the taste buds making them more receptive to flavor. Because it is a salt many people avoid using MSG. MSG is an optional ingredient in this recipe; however you may need to adjust the “salt to taste”.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1 small green pepper chopped
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1/2 cup sifted flour
  • 1 tsp dry mustard
  • 1/2 tsp Accent optional
  • 1 cup whole milk or Half n Half (for richer flavor)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crabmeat
  • 1 No. 2 can tomatoes drained
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Melt shortening in top of double boiler or heavy pan; add green pepper and onion; cook for about 10 minutes until softened.
  2. Blend in flour, mustard, Accent (if using), milk and cheese; cook stirring constantly until cheese is melted and mixture is very thick, about 5-7 minutes. Add crabmeat, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and red pepper; stir to combine. Pour into greased 2 quart casserole.
  3. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my cheese sauce grainy or separated?

A: Make sure to stir constantly while adding the cheese and keep the heat moderate. If the mixture gets too hot too quickly, the cheese can break. Using a double boiler helps prevent this.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

A: Yes, but you'll want to drain them well after chopping. You'll need about 1-2 large tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped. Canned tomatoes give a more consistent result.

Tips and Techniques

Don’t skimp on the cooking time for the onion and pepper in step one - they need to soften completely or they’ll be crunchy in the final dish. The mixture should be quite thick before baking, almost like a heavy cheese sauce, so it sets up nicely.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • crabmeat: chopped cooked shrimp or a combination of shrimp and crab
  • Accent (MSG): an additional 1/4 tsp salt or a pinch of seafood seasoning
  • cheddar cheese: Gruyere or a combination of cheddar and Parmesan

Equipment Needed

  • double boiler or heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • 2-quart casserole dish