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Bubba’s Crab Stew

Bubba’s Crab Stew: A Cozy Southern Comfort for Your Soul

Experience the hearty and creamy delight of Bubba’s Crab Stew, a warm bowl of southern comfort perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Stew Base
  • 1 Fennel Adds a subtle anise flavor and freshness; substitute with leeks for a milder taste.
  • 2 stalks Celery Provides crunch and a slight peppery flavor; no substitutions needed.
  • 1 large Yellow Onion Enhances sweetness and depth; yellow offers the best balance.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness; can be swapped with olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 1/4 cup Self-Rising Flour Acts as a thickening agent; regular flour can be used with baking powder as a substitute.
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 1 cup Crab Base Imparts concentrated crab flavor; seafood bouillon can substitute for a similar taste.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Contributes to the luxurious texture; can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter version.
  • 1/2 cup Cooking Sherry Adds depth and sweetness; white wine can serve as a viable replacement.
  • 1 cup Half and Half Balances creaminess; milk can be used as a substitute if needed.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Provides liquidity; non-dairy milk can work for a vegan option.
For the Star Ingredient
  • 1 pound Crab Meat The true hero of this stew; fresh is ideal, but canned or frozen options work well.
Seasoning & Accompaniments
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
  • as needed Crusty Bread Perfect for dipping in the stew.
  • optional Fresh Herbs Consider using dill or parsley for an extra pop of flavor.

Equipment

  • large heavy saucepan
  • Food processor

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by finely chopping the fennel, celery, and yellow onion. A food processor works wonders here, saving time and ensuring even cuts. Once prepared, set the vegetables aside.
  2. In a large heavy saucepan, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add your chopped fennel, celery, and onion, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in ¼ cup of self-rising flour, cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes until the mixture becomes bubbly and a light golden color forms at the bottom of the pan.
  4. Gradually pour in the crab base, 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of cooking sherry, 1 cup of half-and-half, and 1 cup of whole milk. Whisk continuously until they form a smooth mixture.
  5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in 1 pound of fresh crab meat, being careful not to break the delicate chunks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping, enhancing the cozy experience of Bubba’s Crab Stew.

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