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Crab Stew Recipe

Creamy Crab Stew Recipe for Ultimate Cozy Comfort

This Crab Stew Recipe is the ultimate cozy dish, blending rich flavors and creamy textures for a delightful seafood experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Use salted butter for added flavor if desired.
  • 1 medium diced yellow onion Can substitute with sweet onion to enhance sweetness.
  • 1 stalk diced celery No substitutions recommended for desired flavor.
  • 1 medium diced green bell pepper Red or yellow bell pepper can be used for a sweeter profile.
  • 2 cloves minced garlic Use garlic powder as an alternative, but adjust the quantity to taste.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour For gluten-free options, substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend.
  • 4 cups vegetable broth Chicken broth can be used for a richer flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version; avoid non-dairy to retain creaminess.
  • 1 cup half-and-half Replace with more heavy cream or entirely substitute with whole milk for a lighter option.
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning Feel free to adjust to taste or substitute with a mix of paprika and celery salt.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Can replace with soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
  • 1/4 cup dry sherry Excludes it if unavailable; extra broth can be added instead.
  • 1 pound lump crab meat Avoid imitation crab; canned crab is acceptable if drained thoroughly.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley Can substitute with chives or omit if desired.
  • salt Key for seasoning; adjust to personal taste.
  • black pepper Key for seasoning; adjust to personal taste.

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat until bubbly. Add the onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth until smooth. Pour in the heavy cream and half-and-half, whisking until combined.
  4. Bring the stew to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add the Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and dry sherry (if using). Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Gently fold in the lump crab meat and parsley. Heat for an additional 5 minutes on low.
  6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality lump crab meat and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

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