Description
She Crab Soup is a classic Southern seafood soup cherished for its creamy texture and delicate crab flavor. This easy recipe uses lump crab meat, a smooth roux base, and a blend of cream and seafood stock to create a rich, comforting dish perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups seafood stock
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings & Add-ins
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Main Ingredient
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely to prepare for making the roux.
- Make Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth, golden roux.
- Add Seafood Stock: Gradually pour in the seafood stock while whisking continuously to ensure a smooth consistency without lumps.
- Add Dairy: Stir in the milk and heavy cream, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer, being careful not to let it boil.
- Season the Soup: Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine all flavors evenly.
- Add Crab Meat: Gently fold in the lump crab meat and let the soup cook for about 5 minutes to heat through and infuse crab flavor.
- Optional Addition: Stir in dry sherry if desired for added depth and complexity in flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish and serve the soup warm.
Notes
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the soup never reaches a boil after adding the cream to prevent curdling.
- Dry sherry is optional but adds a nice subtle depth to the soup.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
