Description
Create a flavorful Cajun shrimp and crab stew with this easy recipe. Perfect for busy families, seafood lovers, and a taste of the South in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups chicken broth
1 diced onion
2 cups diced potatoes (fresh or canned)
2–3 celery stalks diced
1 tsp paprika
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp thyme
1 tsp basil
3/4 can tomato sauce (15oz can)
1 tsp minced garlic
1 lb can crab meat
1 lb baby shrimp (typically frozen)
2 tsp creole seasoning (can add more to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Gather all the ingredients. If you’re using canned crab, bake it at 250°F for 5 minutes to easily spot and remove any shell fragments.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven and sauté the “holy trinity”—onion, garlic, and celery—until softened. These three are the foundation of Cajun cooking, and the aroma will transport you straight to Louisiana!
Step 3: Add the Broth and Vegetables
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and stir in diced potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and basil. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Bring in the Seafood
- Add the tomato sauce, crab meat, and baby shrimp. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the crab. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the broth’s flavor to infuse the seafood.
Step 5 (Optional): Thicken the Stew
- For heartier consistency, whisk together flour and water to make a slurry or use cornstarch. Stir the mixture into the stew and simmer until thickened.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Serve hot over steamed white rice, or keep it low-carb with cauliflower rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 40 min