She Crab Soup(From Charleston Receipts)
She Crab Soup is a rich, creamy Charleston classic featuring tender crabmeat and subtle spices, perfect for seafood lovers seeking comfort in a sophisticated bowl.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in the top of a double boiler and blend with flour until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to combine.
- Add crabmeat, crab eggs, whipped cream, onion juice, mace, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and salt to the mixture.
- Cook slowly over hot water for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- To serve, place 1 tablespoon of warmed sherry in each individual soup bowl, then add the hot soup.
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with paprika or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh crabmeat if available. If you're short on time, canned crab is a convenient substitute. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste; if you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper. Ensure to stir continuously when adding the milk to prevent lumps. This soup can also be enhanced with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the She Crab Soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to complement its richness. A chilled glass of white wine or a light beer pairs beautifully with this dish. For an elegant touch, garnish with additional whipped cream and fresh parsley. It also makes a great starter for a seafood-themed meal, such as the Royal Seafood Casserole(May Be Prepared Ahead Of Time.).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can affect the texture. If the soup thickens upon cooling, add a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of She Crab Soup(From Charleston Receipts) contains roughly 1367 calories, with 8g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 138g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (225% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1845mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make She Crab Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the whipped cream and sherry just before serving to maintain their flavors and textures. Reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for crabmeat?
If crabmeat is not available, you can use shrimp or a mixture of seafood to achieve a similar flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, consider using mushrooms or a seafood-flavored broth to create a different but enjoyable version of the soup.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If your soup is thinner than desired, you can thicken it by creating a slurry with additional flour and water, adding it gradually while stirring. Alternatively, let it simmer longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly after thickening.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).