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1
Bring clam juice, cream, tomatoes, carrot, brandy, jalapeno chili, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika to boil in heavy large saucepan.
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2
Reduce heat to medium; simmer until sauce is reduced to 2 cups, stirring occasionally, about 45 minutes.
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3
Puree sauce in blender until smooth.
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4
Return to saucepan; add pinch of cayenne pepper.
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5
Season sauce to taste with salt.
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6
(Sauce can be prepared 1 day ahead.
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7
Cover and refrigerate.)
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8
Combine crabmeat, 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, remaining 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne in large bowl, mixing until well blended.
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9
Form eight 1/2-inch-thick crab cakes, using scant 1/2 cup mixture for each.
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10
Coat crab cakes with remaining 1 1/4 cups breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
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11
(Can be prepared 4 hours ahead.
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12
Arrange in single layer on baking sheet.
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13
Cover and chill.)
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14
Heat olive oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat.
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15
Add 4 crab cakes to skillet and fry until golden and heated through, about 4 minutes per side.
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16
Transfer to paper-towel-lined plate.
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17
Repeat with remaining crab cakes.
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18
Meanwhile, bring sauce to simmer.
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19
Divide sauce among plates; top with crab cakes.
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20
Garnish each with lemon wedges.