Imitation crab is a really budget-friendly way to enjoy the taste of crab without the price tag. Keep reading for some tasty imitation crab recipes.
For more cheap eats, check out all of our recipes.
I say this a lot, but I love crab. Anytime we go out for seafood, that’s what I order. But, my wallet and grocery store budget don’t like crab because it’s super expensive.
Every now and again, you can splurge for crab. But, for everyday meals, imitation crab is the way to go.
I know, I know. It’s not really crab. That’s fine. The texture and food coloring make it crab-esque and seasoning really helps to bring it home.
I wouldn’t suggest using imitation crab and something that’s really crab-centric, like crab imperial, but it’s really good for a lot of other recipes. And, we’ve collected all of our best ones here.
Quick note: You’ll notice some of the recipes use the word kani. That’s the word for crab in Japanese. Technically, imitation crab is kanikama in Japan, but it’s called kani in the United States.
If you’re cooking imitation crab because you’re on a budget, we get it. We’re always cooking on a budget.
To help you, check out our ultimate guide to saving money by cooking at home. It’s filled with tips, recipes, and more.
Imitation Crab Recipes
Find everything from snacks to full meals on this list.
Imitation Crab Roll
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to serve New England-style crab rolls at home, imitation crab rolls are it.
You can make six of them for about $8, which is less than you’d pay for one roll made with real crab at the grocery store.
Air Fryer Crab Bites
A version of these air fryer crab bites went viral on social media and once you make them, you’ll understand why.
They’re the perfect simple and satisfying snack that everyone will love.
Spicy Kani Salad
Japanese food often incorporates imitation crab into its recipes, like this spicy kani salad. Don’t skip it if you don’t like spice. You can tone the spice level down to your preference.
Kani salad — spicy or not — is a really good side dish for a lot of Asian meals, like gyoza, any tempura or breaded cutlet, or teriyaki recipe.
Crab Rangoon
Fun fact: Most of the crab rangoon that you get in Chinese food restaurants actually uses fake crab. That’s why they’re so affordable.
So if you want Chinese takeout and you’re craving crab rangoon, just grab some imitation crab and make it at home.
Kani Yakimeshi
One of my favorite things to eat when I’m in Japan is yakimeshi. It’s a Japanese-style Chinese fried rice.
Most recipes use pork, but when I’m craving something a little bit lighter, I make this version of yakimeshi with imitation crab instead.
Which of these imitation crab recipes are you going to try first? Let us know in the comments.