Surimi Imitation Crabmeat

If imitation is truly the sincerest form of flattery, then Trader Joe’s Surimi might just be the biggest compliment to crab meat—ever. As one of our most consistent customer requests for years, when we set out to find a surimi to add to our refrigerators, we knew it really had to hit the mark. And after trying many different versions, styles, and variations, this Surimi stood far above the rest. It’s made with tender Alaska pollock that’s been mixed with a touch of sugar and pea starch to give it that characteristic crab flavor and texture, and a bit of tomato lycopene to deliver its signature red hue. It all results in a Surimi that’s lightly sweet, a little briny, and delightfully flaky­­—and ready to be used in all sorts of seafood-y recipes, right out of the package.

Originally invented as a cost-effective alternative to crab, surimi has since taken on a culinary identity all its own, and is especially adored in dishes where its firmer texture and milder flavor makes it preferable to crab, for some palates. Whatever your preference, we find that Trader Joe’s Surimi Imitation Crab Meat is an excellent, conveniently pre-cooked protein choice for anything that calls for seafood. Try it on top of a leafy green salad for an easy work lunch, roughly chop it and mix into chowders and gumbos, or, if you want an easy appetizer dip or seafood salad for sandwiches, simply shred it with a fork, mix it with some mayo, Rice Vinegar, chopped veggies and alliums, and a fun and fiery hot sauce, like our Sriracha.