Maryland Crab-Corn Stew

Maryland Crab-Corn Stew Recipe | Canadian Cuisine

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Maryland Crab-Corn Stew is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of fresh crab meat, sweet corn, and a variety of vegetables. This stew is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with a taste of the East Coast.

History

This recipe originates from the state of Maryland, known for its abundance of fresh seafood, particularly blue crabs. The combination of crab meat and corn in a stew is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for generations.

Ingredients

1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups water
0.5 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp salt
0.13 tsp white pepper
1 lb (454 g) backfin crab meat
1 cup whole kernel corn
1 large tomato, peeled and chopped
1 medium green pepper, cleaned and chopped
a few drops of hot sauce
1.5 cups half and half
0.33 cup chopped fresh parsley

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, combine onion, potatoes, water, oregano, salt, and white pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the crab meat, corn, tomato, green pepper, and hot sauce.
Continue cooking for 5 minutes.
Add the half and half and parsley.
Keep the mixture over low heat until heated through.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
Use seafood stock instead of water for a richer flavor.
Substitute half of the crab meat with shrimp for a seafood medley stew.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh crab meat for the best flavor and texture.

- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.

- For a thicker stew, you can add a roux made from butter and flour to the mixture.

- Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Maryland Crab-Corn Stew with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. Pair with a side salad for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the stew over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen corn kernels if fresh corn is not available.

- Substitute half and half with heavy cream for a richer stew.

Make Ahead Tips

The stew can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of paprika or a drizzle of olive oil for a decorative touch. Serve in individual bowls with a lemon wedge on the side.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Maryland Crab-Corn Stew with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a glass of iced tea or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 24g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Calcium: 10% of daily value per serving

Iron: 8% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: Shellfish, Dairy

Summary

This Maryland Crab-Corn Stew is a rich and flavorful dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a great source of essential nutrients and is relatively low in calories.

Summary

Maryland Crab-Corn Stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that highlights the fresh flavors of crab meat and corn. This stew is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with a taste of the East Coast. Enjoy this hearty dish with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a hot summer day in Maryland, and I was attending a church potluck with my dear friend Martha. As we made our way down the line of dishes, my eyes fell upon a steaming pot of Maryland Crab-Corn Stew. The rich aroma of Old Bay seasoning and fresh corn filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I had always been drawn to the cuisine of my home state, with its abundance of fresh seafood and seasonal produce. Growing up, my mother had taught me the basics of cooking, but it was through experiences like this potluck that I truly honed my skills and expanded my culinary repertoire.

I approached the woman who had brought the stew and struck up a conversation. Her name was Mrs. Jenkins, and she was a lifelong Maryland resident with a passion for cooking. She graciously shared her recipe with me, along with a few tips and tricks she had picked up over the years.

The key, she told me, was to start with the freshest ingredients possible. She recommended using Maryland blue crab, if available, and sweet corn straight from the cob. She also stressed the importance of patience, allowing the flavors to meld together slowly over a low heat.

Armed with Mrs. Jenkins' recipe and advice, I set out to recreate the Crab-Corn Stew in my own kitchen. I gathered the ingredients – crab meat, corn, potatoes, onions, and Old Bay seasoning – and got to work.

I started by sautéing the onions in butter until they were soft and translucent. Then I added the potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces, and let them cook until they began to soften. Next came the corn, cut fresh from the cob, and a generous sprinkling of Old Bay seasoning for that signature Maryland flavor.

As the stew simmered on the stove, I carefully folded in the delicate crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps. I let it cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the crab to heat through.

Finally, it was time to serve. I ladled the steaming stew into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite.

As I savored the first spoonful, I was transported back to that church potluck with Martha and Mrs. Jenkins. The flavors were rich and complex, with the sweetness of the corn complementing the briny crab meat perfectly. The Old Bay seasoning added a subtle kick of spice that lingered on my tongue.

I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire, a dish that I would proudly share with friends and family for years to come. And as I sat at the table, surrounded by loved ones enjoying the fruits of my labor, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that had led me to this moment.

So here it is, my beloved Maryland Crab-Corn Stew recipe, passed down to me by Mrs. Jenkins and lovingly shared with you. May it bring you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me over the years. Enjoy!