Celebrity chef Andrew Zimmern thinks New York is the best food city, but he has a soft spot for Baltimore’s crab cakes. He loves them cold, just like a leftover pizza or fried chicken. Zimmern’s go-to snack is a cold crab cake on toast, topped with sliced tomatoes and a generous spread of Russian dressing.
He makes a big batch of Baltimore-Style Crab Cakes to ensure he has some leftovers. His twist on the classic skips fillers. Instead, he combines jumbo lump crab with saltines, mayo, eggs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of hot sauce. According to Zimmerman, this simplicity is key for a great flavor.
Now, about that Russian dressing—it’s not just for salads. It adds a special kick to his dish. Traditional Russian dressing often contains mayo, ketchup, and sometimes spicy horseradish. But Zimmern’s version is made from mayo, Heinz chili sauce, sweet pickle relish, herbs, lemon juice, and hot sauce, giving it a unique twist. The sweetness from the pickle relish pairs well with the crab’s natural flavor, while the hot sauce adds a punch.
Zimmern doesn’t specify the type of toast he uses, but a crispy slice of brioche could elevate the dish with its buttery texture.
Historically, crab cakes are a beloved seafood dish in various regions, each with its own take. Baltimore is famous for its crab cakes, but Louisiana adds shrimp or crawfish and often uses bold Cajun spices. Meanwhile, Carolinas’ versions might blend different kinds of crab with lots of herbs and peppers.
Recent food trends show that crab cakes are not just a seasonal dish anymore. A study from the National Restaurant Association in 2023 found that seafood dishes saw a 15% rise in popularity, largely driven by home cooks looking to explore flavors beyond the ordinary.
Zimmern’s crab cake recipe, rooted in tradition, continues to capture attention. It first appeared in Food & Wine magazine in 2012 and was recognized as one of the top 40 recipes in 2018. It has retained its spot in the 2025 update, proving its timeless appeal among food lovers.
If you’re curious to learn more about crab dishes and their variations across the U.S., check resources like Food Republic and stay updated on your culinary journey.
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Andrew Zimmern, crab cakes, Baltimore, Russian dressing, Worcestershire sauce, chili sauce, hot sauce
