Bubba's Crab Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew featuring crab meat, vegetables, and a creamy broth, perfect for cozy evenings or entertaining friends.
Ingredients
Vegetable Base
- 1 bulb Fennel Adds a subtle anise flavor; can substitute with leeks.
- 2 stalks Celery Provides crunch and a slight peppery flavor; no substitutions.
- 1 large Yellow Onion Enhances sweetness; yellow offers the best balance.
Cooking Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons Butter Adds richness; can be swapped with olive oil.
- 0.5 cups Self-Rising Flour Acts as a thickening agent; regular flour can be used with baking powder.
- 4 cups Crab Base Imparts concentrated crab flavor; seafood bouillon can be used.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Contributes to the luxurious texture; half-and-half can replace it.
- 0.5 cups Cooking Sherry Adds depth; white wine can serve as a replacement.
- 1 cup Half and Half Balances creaminess; can substitute with milk.
- 1 cup Whole Milk Provides liquidity; non-dairy milk can also be used.
- 1 pound Crab Meat Fresh is ideal; canned or frozen crab can be used.
Seasoning
- Salt to taste, essential for seasoning.
- Pepper to taste, essential for seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
- 1 loaf Crusty Bread Perfect for dipping.
- Fresh Herbs to taste, optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Finely chop the fennel bulb, celery, and yellow onion using a food processor until smooth. Set this mixture aside.
Cooking
- In a large heavy saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
- Stir in the self-rising flour with the sautéed vegetables, mixing until the flour is fully absorbed.
- Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and takes on a light golden color.
- Gradually pour in the crab base, heavy cream, cooking sherry, half-and-half, and whole milk. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the crab meat, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Notes
Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste. Finely chop vegetables for smoother texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
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