Lowcountry She Crab Soup

There’s something deeply comforting about a creamy seafood soup that carries the rich essence of the coast.

Lowcountry She Crab Soup is a Southern classic, blending fresh crab, aromatic vegetables, and a splash of sherry for a luxurious finish.

It’s elegant enough for a special dinner yet cozy enough for a Sunday family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

 

It’s packed with rich crab flavor and a velvety, creamy texture.

The addition of sherry gives a signature Lowcountry flair.

This soup feels indulgent yet comes together in under an hour.

It’s versatile—you can serve it as a starter or a satisfying main dish.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

 

Butter creates a rich base and helps develop the roux.

Onion, celery, and carrot form the aromatic flavor foundation.

Seafood stock infuses the soup with depth, while cream adds indulgence.

Old Bay seasoning and spices bring warmth and balance.

Lump crab meat adds sweetness and delicate texture.

Sherry gives the soup its signature Southern finish.

Pro Tips Before You Start

 

Use fresh lump crab meat if possible for the best flavor.

Don’t let the soup boil once the crab is added—it will toughen the meat.

Add sherry toward the end to preserve its aroma.

If you find crab roe, it will enhance the richness and authenticity.

How to Make Lowcountry She Crab Soup

 

Step 1 – Sauté the aromatics

Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.

Add onion, celery, and carrot, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2 – Make the roux

Sprinkle flour into the pot and whisk constantly for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3 – Add the stock

Gradually whisk in the seafood stock.

Let it simmer for 10 minutes to thicken and blend flavors.

Step 4 – Cream and season

Stir in half-and-half (or heavy cream).

Add Old Bay, paprika, white pepper, cayenne (if using), and salt.

Step 5 – Add the crab

Gently stir in lump crab meat and crab roe.

Simmer just below boiling for 10 minutes.

Step 6 – Finish with sherry

Add sherry and adjust seasoning. Taste and balance flavors as needed.

Step 7 – Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley, chives, extra crab meat, and a splash of sherry if desired.

What to Serve Them With

 

Pair with crusty bread or oyster crackers for dipping.

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette.

Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Variations / Substitutions

 

Use chicken stock if seafood stock isn’t available.

Swap half-and-half for heavy cream for an even richer soup.

Add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.

If crab roe isn’t available, just add more lump crab meat.

Storage & Leftovers

 

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently over low heat; avoid boiling.

Freeze for up to 1 month, though the texture may change slightly due to cream.

FAQs

 

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently on low heat before serving.

Do I have to use sherry?
Sherry is traditional, but you can use dry white wine or omit it if preferred.

Can I use imitation crab meat?
It’s possible, but real lump crab meat gives the best flavor and texture.

Is this soup spicy?
Not overly; it has mild spice from cayenne and paprika, but you can adjust to taste.

Can I thicken the soup more?
Yes, cook the roux longer or simmer the soup a bit more until it reaches your desired thickness.

What’s the best garnish?
Fresh herbs, a splash of sherry, and extra crab meat are classic choices.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, up to 1 month, but the cream may slightly change texture after thawing.

Can I substitute the seafood stock?
Chicken stock works fine if seafood stock isn’t available, though the flavor will be less briny.

What kind of crab is best for this recipe?
Fresh lump crab meat is ideal, but backfin crab can also work.

How do I keep the crab meat tender?
Add it toward the end and avoid boiling—just keep the soup at a gentle simmer.

Final Thoughts

 

Lowcountry She Crab Soup is creamy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

It’s a dish that feels both traditional and indulgent, making it perfect for celebrations or cozy nights at home.

Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a cherished Southern staple.