Imagine a spoon gliding through a velvety, rich soup that captures the essence of coastal Carolina's most beloved culinary tradition. Charleston She Crab Soup is not just a dish; it's a luxurious journey through Southern coastal flavors that will transport your taste buds to the charming streets of Charleston. Packed with succulent lump crab meat, this creamy delicacy promises to elevate your dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary, offering a taste of Southern hospitality in every decadent spoonful.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 4 cups seafood stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 1/4 cup sherry
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Do not let the roux brown.
- Gradually add the seafood stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the crab is heated through.
- Stir in the sherry and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Tips
- Use Fresh Crab Meat: Always opt for fresh, high-quality lump crab meat to ensure the most authentic and delicious flavor.
- Roux Technique: When making the roux, stir constantly and avoid browning to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
- Seafood Stock Matters: Use a high-quality seafood stock for the most robust maritime flavor.
- Gentle Heating: When adding crab meat, fold gently to preserve the delicate lumps and prevent breaking.
- Sherry Enhancement: The sherry adds depth, but add it at the end to preserve its nuanced flavor profile.
- Seasoning Secrets: Taste and adjust salt and pepper gradually to achieve the perfect balance.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh chives or scallions can add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich soup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 130mg
