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–+ servings
Crab Stew Recipe

Creamy Crab Stew Recipe That Will Elevate Your Dinner Game

This creamy crab stew recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a taste of the Chesapeake Bay with rich flavors and fresh ingredients.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option
  • 1 large diced yellow onion ensure it’s diced into small pieces for even cooking
  • 1 stalk diced celery essential in Southern cooking as part of the 'holy trinity'
  • 1 large diced green bell pepper feel free to substitute with red bell pepper for sweetness
  • 3 cloves minced garlic garlic powder is a convenient alternative in a pinch
Stew
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour cornstarch can be used for a gluten-free option
  • 4 cups vegetable broth chicken broth works well for a non-vegetarian twist
  • 1 cup heavy cream substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version if desired
  • 1 cup half-and-half more heavy cream or milk can be used as an alternative
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning can be replaced with Cajun seasoning for a different kick
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce soy sauce can serve as a substitute
  • 1/4 cup dry sherry optional; feel free to omit or replace with white wine
Finale
  • 1 pound lump crab meat ensure it’s picked over for shells, fresh or frozen preferred
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chives can be used for a different flavor profile
  • to taste salt adjust based on the other salty ingredients used
  • to taste black pepper adjust based on the other salty ingredients used

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat for about 2 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add 1 diced yellow onion, 1 diced celery stalk, and 1 diced green bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  3. Mix in 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes.
  5. Slowly whisk in 4 cups of vegetable broth, then add 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of half-and-half.
  6. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Old Bay seasoning, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 cup of dry sherry if using.
  7. Cover and let simmer on low for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Gently fold in 1 pound of lump crab meat and 1/4 cup of fresh chopped parsley, heating for an additional 5 minutes.
  9. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 28gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Keep your crab stew at a gentle simmer instead of boiling for a smooth texture. Always opt for fresh or frozen lump crab meat for the best flavor. Prep vegetables ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

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