Bitesize Crab Tartlets

Bitesize Crab Tartlets are a quintessential party appetizer that bring a touch of elegance and gourmet flair to any gathering. Combining the delicate sweetness of white crab meat with the richness of crème fraiche and sharpness of parmesan cheese is brilliant. These tartlets are a perfect mix of flavours packed into a small, crisp pastry shell. The fresh chives and a hint of paprika add layers of complexity, ensuring that each bite is a tantalizing experience.

The white crab meat forms the heart of this dish. It offers a subtle yet distinct seafood flavour that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the crème fraiche. The choice of white crab meat is crucial; its mild taste doesn’t overpower the other ingredients but rather complements them. Thus creating a balanced and harmonious flavour profile. Fresh chives bring a bright, onion-like bite, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crab and cheese mixture.

Crème fraiche, a cultured dairy product similar to sour cream but richer and less tangy, provides a creamy base that binds the crab meat and other ingredients together. It contributes a smooth, velvety texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel of the tartlets. When combined with the slightly nutty and salty notes of parmesan cheese, the result is a luxurious filling that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced.

Paprika, often used for its vibrant colour and mild heat, imparts a subtle smokiness to the tartlets. This spice not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also adds an additional layer of flavour that complements the sweetness of the crab meat and the creaminess of the filling. A dash of black pepper adds a final touch of heat, bringing all the flavours together in a cohesive and delightful bite.

The tartlet shells, typically made from buttery, flaky pastry, provide the perfect vessel for the creamy crab filling. Their crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the soft, rich filling, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. These small pastry cases hold the filling perfectly, ensuring that each tartlet is a convenient, bite-sized morsel. Each one being easy to eat and enjoy.

Obviously, these tartlets are ideal for cocktail parties, gatherings or any special occasion. Bitesize Crab Tartlets are sure to impress guests with their sophisticated flavour and elegant presentation. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile addition to any menu.

Bitesize Crab Tartlets

Bitesize Crab Tartlets are an elegant appetizer featuring white crab meat, chives, crème fraiche, parmesan cheese, and a hint of paprika in a crisp pastry shell. Perfect for any special occasion, these tartlets offer a delightful combination of creamy and savoury flavours in each bite.

4.85 from 65 votes

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Course: Appetizer, Canapes, Starter

Cuisine: French

Keyword: Crab, Crab Tartlets, Herbs, Pastry, Spice

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 36 Tartlets

Calories: 269kcal

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Ingredients

 

MetricImperial

• 36 small pastry cases mini croustades
• 1 large egg free range beaten
• 4 tbsp half-fat crème fraiche
• 1 tbsp fresh chives snipped
• 1 pinch paprika
• 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese finely grated
• 225 g white crab meat
• ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 200ºC/gas 6.
• Place the pastry cases onto a baking sheet.
  36 small pastry cases
• Beat together all the remaining ingredients and use to fill the pastry cases.
  1 large egg, 4 tbsp half-fat crème fraiche, 1 tbsp fresh chives, 1 pinch paprika, 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese, 225 g white crab meat, ground black pepper
• Bake for about 15 minutes, until the filling is just set and turning golden.
• Cool a little and serve.

Notes

Recipe tips
These are best eaten (or frozen) the same day to stop the pastry going soggy.
For a vegetarian option, replace the crab with the equivalent weight of thinly sliced sautéed onions or mushrooms.
If you can’t find bite-sized pastry cases, then line mini tart tins with very thinly rolled shortcrust or filo pastry (200g).

Nutrition

Calories: 269kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.001g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 175mg | Potassium: 44mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 16IU | Vitamin C: 0.5mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg