Are you ready to experience a taste of Baltimore? Then get ready to dive into a bowl of creamy, dreamy Maryland Crab Soup! This recipe, inspired by the culinary heart of Baltimore, delivers a rich and flavorful experience that will transport you straight to the Chesapeake Bay. Forget complicated recipes; this is a surprisingly easy way to make a delicious, healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This homemade recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
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Simmer the soup: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Stir in the cream and crab: Gently stir in the heavy cream. Add the crab meat and heat through. Be careful not to overcook the crab, as it can become tough. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over each serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Maryland Crab Soup:
- Use high-quality crab meat: The star of this dish is the crab meat, so splurge on the best quality you can find. Look for lump crab meat for the most delicious result.
- Don't overcook the crab: Overcooked crab becomes tough and loses its delicate flavor. Add it towards the end of cooking and heat it through gently.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking, or omit it altogether for a milder soup.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! You can make it ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, potatoes, or green beans.
- Use different types of cream: Half-and-half or even a combination of cream and milk can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of Old Bay seasoning for a classic Maryland touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This delicious Maryland Crab Soup is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a healthy meal option, a quick dinner idea, and a fantastic way to showcase the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy this delicious dish, a true taste of Baltimore sunshine!