Tasty Seafood Soup with Crab and Shrimp Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful seafood dish, this creamy seafood soup with crab and shrimp is a perfect choice. Packed with the rich flavors of fresh shrimp, tender crabmeat, and aromatic herbs, this soup is an excellent dish for a cozy dinner or as an impressive appetizer at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ pound of crabmeat (preferably lump crabmeat)
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups of fish or seafood stock
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of milk
½ cup of dry white wine
2 tablespoons of butter
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons of flour
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Seafood

Begin by preparing the shrimp and crabmeat. Peel and devein the shrimp, ensuring they are cleaned thoroughly. If you’re using fresh crabmeat, make sure there are no shell pieces left in the meat. You can also use canned or frozen crabmeat if fresh isn’t available, but fresh seafood will give the best flavor.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.

3. Making the Roux

Next, add the butter to the pot and let it melt completely. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook the flour for about 2 minutes to remove the raw taste, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. The flour will help thicken the soup and create a rich, creamy texture.

4. Adding the Liquids

Once the roux is ready, slowly pour in the white wine, stirring constantly. The wine will add depth to the flavor of the soup and help deglaze the pot, incorporating all the flavors from the sautéed vegetables and roux. Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Next, gradually add the fish or seafood stock, followed by the heavy cream and milk. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Seasoning the Soup

To give the soup a boost of flavor, add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste. The smoked paprika will add a hint of smokiness that complements the seafood, while the cayenne pepper provides a subtle heat. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Let the soup simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Cooking the Seafood

Once the soup base is well-seasoned and simmered, it’s time to add the shrimp and crabmeat. Gently stir in the shrimp and crab, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the soup. Allow the shrimp to cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

7. Final Touches

After the seafood is cooked, give the soup a final taste test. Adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce further, or you can add a slurry made from a tablespoon of flour mixed with water to thicken it more.

8. Garnish and Serve

Once your soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Ladle the creamy seafood soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the soup with crusty bread on the side for dipping, as it complements the creamy texture and rich flavors of the soup.

Tips for the Perfect Seafood Soup

Fresh Seafood: Always opt for fresh shrimp and crab if available. Fresh seafood gives a more robust flavor to your soup and makes the dish more enjoyable. However, if you’re in a pinch, frozen or canned options can work as substitutes.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a unique smoky flavor that pairs well with seafood. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work too, but the soup may lack the smoky undertone.
Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use alcohol in your cooking, you can substitute the white wine with an equal amount of seafood stock or chicken broth. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Thickening the Soup: The flour in this recipe helps to thicken the soup. If you want an even creamier consistency, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) during the last few minutes of cooking.

Nutritional Information

This seafood soup with crab and shrimp is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 450-500
Protein: 25-30 grams
Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
Fats: 30-35 grams
Sodium: 800-1000 mg

Keep in mind that the nutritional content can vary depending on the exact ingredients you use, especially the type of cream and seafood stock.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and milk gives the soup a luxurious, velvety texture that makes every bite satisfying.
Seafood Lovers’ Dream: Packed with shrimp and crab, this soup is perfect for seafood enthusiasts. Each spoonful is brimming with the fresh taste of the ocean.
Simple Yet Elegant: Although this dish is easy to prepare, it’s elegant enough to serve at a dinner party or special occasion. It’s a sure way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Conclusion

This seafood soup with crab and shrimp is a must-try for anyone who enjoys hearty, creamy soups with a rich seafood flavor. The blend of shrimp, crab, and vegetables in a velvety broth is simply irresistible. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread, and you have a comforting meal that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or the main course, this soup will surely become a family favorite.

Enjoy making this delicious soup, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!