She Crab Soup Panama City Beach Fl
When you think of Panama City Beach, Florida, you might imagine white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and endless sunshine. But this coastal town also has a rich culinary scene, especially when it comes to seafood.
One dish that stands out among the rest is She Crab Soup. This creamy and indulgent soup is a local favorite and a must-try for anyone visiting the area.
The History of She Crab Soup
She Crab Soup has roots in the Lowcountry region of the southern United States, which includes parts of South Carolina and Georgia. However, it quickly became a staple of coastal cuisine throughout the southeast.
The soup's name comes from its main ingredient: female blue crabs, which are also known as "She Crabs." These crabs are highly valued for their sweet and delicate meat, which is used to make the base of the soup.
Legend has it that the soup was first created by Charleston socialite Louisa Wigfall, who won a cooking contest with her recipe in the early 20th century.
The Ingredients of She Crab Soup
As mentioned before, the key ingredient in She Crab Soup is female blue crabs. The meat from these crabs is used to make a rich and creamy broth, which also includes heavy cream, sherry, and spices like nutmeg and cayenne pepper.
Other ingredients may vary depending on the recipe, but often include onion, celery, and carrots to add flavor and depth. Some recipes also call for a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra tang.
Where to Try She Crab Soup in Panama City Beach
If you're looking to try She Crab Soup in Panama City Beach, you have plenty of options. Many local restaurants feature this dish on their menus, and each chef puts their own unique spin on it.
One highly recommended spot is Captain Anderson's, a seafood restaurant that has been a staple of the area since 1967. Their She Crab Soup is made with fresh blue crabs and a secret blend of seasonings that make it a fan favorite.
Another option is Hunt's Oyster Bar, a casual seafood joint that has been serving up She Crab Soup for over 50 years. Their recipe is simple and classic, letting the sweet and savory flavors of the crab shine through.
Making She Crab Soup at Home
If you can't make it to Panama City Beach but still want to enjoy the deliciousness of She Crab Soup, you can make it at home. Here's a classic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound female blue crab meat
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry sherry
- Paprika, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Add the flour and stir until a thick paste forms. Gradually whisk in the milk and crab meat, stirring constantly.
- Add the heavy cream and sherry, as well as any additional spices you'd like. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until thickened.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of paprika on top.
Enjoy!
Conclusion
She Crab Soup is a beloved local tradition in Panama City Beach, FL, and for good reason. This creamy and flavorful soup is made with the freshest blue crab meat and a blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you try it at a local restaurant or make it at home, She Crab Soup is a dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings and remind you of the delicious flavors of the sea.
