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Crab Chowder Soup

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450 g crab meat, cooked and picked over for shells
  • 4 slices bacon diced
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 large carrot diced
  • 4 cups 1 liter seafood or chicken stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or seafood seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges optional, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Cook the bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot. This will give your chowder a smoky, rich base.
  • Sauté the aromatics: Add butter to the bacon fat, then sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrot for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Add potatoes and seasonings: Toss in the diced potatoes, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir so the vegetables are well-coated with seasoning.
  • Build the soup base: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the stock, whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
  • Add crab and cream: Stir in the crab meat and heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes, ensuring the crab is heated through but not overcooked. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Finish and serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls, sprinkle with crispy bacon and fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty touch that complements the richness of the soup. Optional: a slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping.
Keyword Crab Chowder Soup