Crab and Shrimp Boil

Crab and Shrimp Boil, every time I think about this dish I am transported to a  beach with a roaring fire and a large pot boiling away. Inside, corn, potatoes, and wonderful ocean treats all simmering together in spices and herbs. You can't get any simpler than that for a delicious meal all in one!

Song of the day: "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong.

Crab and Shrimp Boil, succulent juicy shrimp and crab meet sweet corn, lemon, and the most wonderful pink and yellow potatoes. To kick things up a notch, a few herbs and spices, just enough to take this classic beach dish to other levels!

 

 

Ocean meets Earth.........

Crab and shrimp, a great combination, however, combine that with some seasonal veggies and we have a delicious beautiful dish to serve for a weekend lunch or weekday dinner.

I have always wanted to cook on an open fire. People have told me stories of their craw fish bakes and lobster and seafood boil, however, I have never experienced one. The thought of being on a sandy beach cooking and sitting back and enjoying all these great ingredients that the earth gives us is simply a beautiful dream of mine.

It was only a dream..........................

I wish I could say that my dream finally came true and I could paint the picture of the sunset illuminating on the blank surface of the ocean as I hear the crackling of the fire and smell the sweetness of this body of water boiling in my pot as I feel the sand slip through my toes, lol.

Well, that did not happen because we are in Fall now and a bit far from the beach, but that does not stop me from creating what I desire to cook, because as my Dad used to tell me, "Make do with what you have and always give it your best". That I did do, and the result, a most amazing plate of food that Nicoletta and I feasted on. It is a messy affair and napkins are a requirement, maybe even a bib, lol.

I hope you enjoy the making of Crab and Shrimp Boil!

 

 

And shopping we will go........

By now, you already have figured out that Nicoletta and I love going to markets and do our weekly fresh shopping run. This week was no different, and as a result, we found all that we needed to make this wonderful boil with tasty crab and shrimp and so much more. 

Let's take a look.........

• King crab legs from Ocean Odyssey 
• Shrimp and lemons from our local organic market
• Corn from Steve and Dan's
• Yellow potatoes,  onions, and garlic and garlic scapes from Sparrow's nest organics
• And these beautiful Amarosa fingerling potatoes from our wonderful friends Margaret and Raymond @Kitchen Frau
• A few herbs and spices from our pantry and garden.

Thanks to all of you for producing and cultivating such amazing food!

Easy Breezy Beautiful..............

What I love about this dish are its comfort and simplicity. You simply put all the corn, onions, garlic, and garlic scapes, lemons, some herbs and spices into a pot with some water and vegetable stock. Let that boil till potatoes are almost fork tender then add the crab and shrimp. That's it, that simple, and in just a short time you have a wonderful family-style meal that not only looks scrumptious but has the aroma to back it up. This Crab and Shrimp Boil is similar to a bouillabaisse, however, it is not a soup. I guess you could drink the broth because it is very edible but I would want to stew that a bit more to build the flavors!

Color is a wonderful thing.........

It always amazes me how seafood in general like crab and shrimp turn that lovely pinkish/reddish color when cooked. I love all the variations in the pot from the color of the corn and those interesting Amarosa fingerling and yellow potatoes to the freshness of the parsley. My mouth is truly watering right now and I am so excited because Nicoletta has never had a boil like this. 

Both Nicoletta and my son Joel questioned me about flavor and boiling everything together like that, even had a few strange looks, however, I had no fear or doubt and I know the flavors would be spot on!

Time to plate..........

If you look below you will see how beautiful this dish can be. Corn wonderfully steamed, shrimp and crab beautifully pinkish red, those lovely potatoes soft, flavorful, lemons adding some acidity and freshness. I added a drizzle of oil and melted butter seasoned with parsley, thyme, and garlic. I thought that would really punch some flavor into this mix. The aroma is amazing and I am calling Nicoletta to the table. Dinner's ready!

Let's eat..............

I am like a kid in a candy store. What do I want to try first? My decision, the corn, sweet juicy and so wonderful, then a bite of those potatoes soft, earthy, and so rich in texture.

Okay now for those jewels of the ocean, crack open the crab and the smell of that sweetness overcomes me and the moistness and tenderness of the crab is amazing. I help Nicoletta with hers and consequently, she is not able to talk as her tongue and taste buds have gone to heaven. I offer her some help wiping her lips and chin of the juices. The shrimp is also very plump and sweet.

That drizzle of the olive oil/butter/herb mix is perfect. Every once in a while you get this fresh and luxurious hit of flavor and texture. A perfect compliment to the seafood and veggies!

Final Thoughts................

First of all, I think I have proven myself with the flavor and texture I achieved. A huge pat on my back and by the finger licking and lip smacking that I observed from Nicoletta, I can honestly say this first time Crab and Shrimp Boil was a success!

Want an easy meal to prepare for your family or friends? Well, I think this dish fits the bill. It transports you to that lovely scene on the beach and also gives great variety in flavor and texture. Give it a try, I would love to hear your thoughts on this one.

Enjoy!

Song of the day: "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong.

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