Old Bay Shrimp And Crab Leg Boil
If you're a seafood lover, you know that there's nothing quite like a fresh crab leg or shrimp coated in mouth-watering seasoning. That's why the Old Bay Shrimp and Crab Leg Boil is the perfect dish to impress your guests at your next family gathering or summer party.
The Origin of Old Bay Seasoning
Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a quick look at the origin of Old Bay seasoning. This classic blend of herbs and spices was created in 1940 by a German immigrant named Gustav Brunn, who settled in Maryland. He combined celery salt, pepper, bay leaves, and other herbs and spices to make a seasoning that would complement the local seafood.
Today, Old Bay seasoning is a staple in many Maryland households, and it's even used to flavor other popular dishes like french fries and chicken wings.
The Ingredients
Now let's talk about the main ingredients for the Old Bay Shrimp and Crab Leg Boil:
- 2 pounds of crab legs
- 1 pound of large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 pound of small red potatoes
- 4 ears of corn (cut into thirds)
- 1 onion (cut into wedges)
- 2 lemons (cut into wedges)
- 1/2 cup of Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1/2 cup of beer (optional)
The Recipe
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the Old Bay seasoning, beer (optional), and potatoes. Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes until they are almost tender.
2. Add the corn and onion to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Add the crab legs and cook for 3-4 minutes. Then add the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they turn pink.
4. Drain the pot and transfer the seafood and vegetables to a large serving dish.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and more Old Bay seasoning, then pour it over the seafood and vegetables.
Tips for a Perfect Boil
The Old Bay Shrimp and Crab Leg Boil is a simple recipe, but there are a few tricks to make sure it turns out perfectly:
- Don't overcook the seafood. Shrimp turn pink and curl up when they're done, and crab legs should be heated through but not overcooked.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. If you can, buy your seafood from a local fish market.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer your food spicier, add more Old Bay seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Add some extra flavor by cooking your boil outdoors. This is a great way to enjoy the sunshine and spend time with family and friends.
In Conclusion
The Old Bay Shrimp and Crab Leg Boil is a classic dish that's perfect for any seafood lover. This simple recipe is easy to make and will impress your guests with its delicious blend of spices and juicy seafood.
Whether you're hosting a family gathering, a summer party, or just want to enjoy a tasty meal, the Old Bay Shrimp and Crab Leg Boil is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.