Ingredients:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 yellow onion, diced

1 cup sliced celery

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning

6 tablespoons flour

1 lb. baby yellow potatoes, diced into ½-3/4 inch pieces

1 quart (32 oz.) half and half

1 (14.5 oz.) can seafood stock

1 cup chicken broth

2 bay leaves

½ pound fresh crab meat

2 teaspoons sherry vinegar

Kosher salt

fresh cracked pepper

Garnish

chopped parsley

sliced chives

crab meat

oyster crackers

Old Bay Seasoning

Instructions

Melt butter in a large Dutch oven over medium to medium high heat.

Add onion and celery along with a couple large pinches of salt and pepper and cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Add flour and stir to combine. Cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.

Add half the seafood stock to deglaze the pan and scrape all the yummy bits off the bottom.

Add remaining seafood stock, half and half, and chicken broth.

Then add potatoes, Old Bay seasoning, and bay leaves along with a couple pinches of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Bring to a simmer over medium high heat.

Reduce heat to medium low and simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add most of the crab meat, reserving some for garnish.

Simmer gently for another 5 minutes or until potatoes are fork tender.

Stir in sherry vinegar and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Garnish with chives, parsley, and remaining crab meat and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 bowl

Calories: 388 | Sugar: 10.6 g | Sodium: 813.4 mg | Fat: 16.5 g | Saturated Fat: 8.9 g | Carbohydrates: 44 g | Fiber: 2.7 g | Protein: 15.7 g | Cholesterol: 61.2 mg

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I substitute ingredients in the creamy crab soup?

Yes, you can make substitutions based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

For instance, you might use a different type of potato or replace half and half with a lighter cream.

Is Old Bay seasoning necessary, and can I adjust the quantity?

Old Bay seasoning adds a distinctive flavor, but you can adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences or use alternative seafood seasonings.

Can I use frozen crab meat instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen crab meat can be a convenient substitute.

Ensure it’s thawed properly before adding it to the soup.

How do I store and reheat leftover crab soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or half and half to maintain the soup’s consistency.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Keep the garnishes separate until serving.

What are good alternatives to oyster crackers for garnish?

Alternatives include crusty bread, croutons, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added texture.

Is the soup gluten-free, and can I use a gluten-free flour substitute?

The soup contains flour, making it not gluten-free.

You can try using a gluten-free flour substitute if needed.

What’s a good side dish to serve with creamy crab soup?

A simple green salad, crusty bread, or garlic knots make excellent side dishes to complement the flavors of the soup.

Can I make this soup with other types of seafood?

Yes, you can customize the soup by adding other seafood like shrimp, scallops, or clams for a diverse seafood chowder.

How can I make the soup lighter without compromising flavor?

Use a lighter cream, reduce the amount of butter, or substitute with a healthier alternative.

Additionally, increase the proportion of vegetables for added nutrition.