South Carolina She-Crab Soup

This rich bisque soup, filled with chunks of sweet crab, is known for its luxurious, smooth richness. It's a staple food on the South Carolina coast.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 677 Calories

Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 1 pint heavy cream
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• 2 quarts half-and-half cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1 pound lump crabmeat
• 1 small white onion, grated
• 1 stalk celery, grated
• 0.5 cup sherry wine

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Melt butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a smooth paste. Cook, stirring for about 3 minutes. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring for about 4 minutes.

Step 2

Gradually whisk in half-and-half so that no lumps form. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer. Add 1/4 cup sherry. Season with dill, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Cover and simmer until soup has reduced by 1/3, about 30 minutes. Add crabmeat and simmer for 10 more minutes.

Step 3

Ladle soup into bowls. Top each serving with a splash of remaining 1/4 cup sherry and garnish with chives.