Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) imitation crab sticks, cut into 1-inch chunks or shredded
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
  • 4 tbsp (57g) unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves (12g) garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp (2g) smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) black pepper
  • 1 tbsp (1g) fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the crab sticks in a single layer and let them sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the edges are golden-brown and crisp. Flip and sear for another 2 minutes, then remove the crab from the pan and set aside on a plate.
  2. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once the butter foams and smells nutty, stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika. Sauté for 30-60 seconds until the garlic is translucent and fragrant.
  3. Return the seared crab sticks to the pan. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss rapidly for 1-2 minutes until the butter emulsifies into a glossy sauce that coats the crab. Remove from heat immediately and garnish with fresh parsley.