CRAB SOUP

Crab soup is such a comforting dish! Whether you’re craving something creamy or a broth-based version, crab soup is always a treat. Here’s a delicious Creamy Crab Soup recipe, but if you’re interested in a broth-based version, I can share that too!

Creamy Crab Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) lump crab meat (fresh or canned)

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

• 1 large potato, peeled and diced (optional, for extra creaminess)

• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or seafood broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)

• 1/4 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or more to taste)

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for a bit of brightness)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables:

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.

2. Add Broth and Potatoes:

   • Add the chicken or seafood broth to the pot. If you’re using potatoes, add them now as well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

3. Add Crab Meat and Seasonings:

   • Gently stir in the crab meat and season with Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes to let the crab heat through and absorb the flavors.

4. Add Cream:

   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, but don’t let it boil once the cream is added (to prevent curdling).

5. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more Old Bay, salt, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

6. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping!

Optional Additions:

• Corn: You could add some corn kernels for a sweet pop of flavor.

• Sherry: A splash of dry sherry can add a nice depth of flavor to the soup if you want a more gourmet touch.

• Spinach: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale for extra greens.

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Broth-Based Crab Soup Variation:

If you prefer a lighter, broth-based crab soup, you can skip the heavy cream and use more broth (about 5-6 cups). Here’s a quick swap:

• Skip the cream and instead add 1 can of diced tomatoes (drained) for some acidity.

• Add more Old Bay and fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves for more depth.

• You can also add some white wine to the broth for extra flavor.

Which version are you leaning toward? I bet both are delicious!