Are you craving a taste of the coast? This creamy, dreamy 82 Queen She Crab Soup recipe is the perfect way to transport your taste buds to the shores of the Atlantic. Rich, decadent, and surprisingly easy to make, this homemade soup is a delicious dish that's perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Forget those complicated, time-consuming recipes; this version brings the exquisite flavors of she crab soup to your table without the fuss. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings of this delightful soup.
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup sherry (dry or medium-dry)
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Don't rush this step; the gentle cooking brings out the sweetness of the vegetables.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will thicken the soup beautifully.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add the sherry, Old Bay seasoning, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Creamy Perfection
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This step creates that rich, velvety texture that defines a great she crab soup.
Step 5: Gently Incorporate the Crab
Stir in the crab meat, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Heat through, being careful not to overcook the crab. Overcooked crab becomes tough and loses its delicate flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrusy freshness. Enjoy your delicious homemade 82 Queen She Crab Soup!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more chicken broth.
- Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as thyme or paprika.
- For a luxurious touch, add a splash of cream sherry or even a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This 82 Queen She Crab Soup recipe is a testament to the fact that quick dinner ideas can also be incredibly delicious and satisfying. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. The simple steps and readily available ingredients make it an ideal choice for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick and flavorful meal. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious result!