Linda CainIf you’re anything like me, soup is your go-to comfort food. It wraps around you like a warm hug. And when it comes to soup, few can rival the richness and indulgence of Neiman Marcus She Crab Soup. Imagine it, a spoonful of creamy goodness brimming with tender lumps of crab.
But let me set the stage for you: picture a beautiful summer day, lounging with friends. A bowl of this soup alongside a crisp, crunchy Caesar salad makes for a match made in heaven. That’s the beauty of this dish—its versatility and elegance.
What is Neiman Marcus She Crab Soup?
Neiman Marcus She Crab Soup is a signature dish known for its sumptuous flavor and luxurious texture. Originating from the renowned Neiman Marcus restaurants, this soup combines the sweet flavors of fresh crab with a velvety cream base, perfectly complemented by a hint of sherry and a touch of Old Bay seasoning.
The origins of this dish date back decades, and over time, it has earned a place in the hearts of seafood lovers across the country.
The Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s take a look at what makes this soup truly sing. Here’s the lineup:
- 1 lb. of fresh crab meat
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, finely diced
- 1 small carrot, diced
- 1/4 cup of diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup of uncooked white rice
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons of concentrated tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- A pinch of ground nutmeg
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked white pepper, to taste
- 2 cups of bottled clam juice
- 2 1/2 cups of chicken stock
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of diced green onions
- Freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of paprika for garnish
How to Make Neiman Marcus She Crab Soup?
Making this dish requires just a bit of patience and some love, so grab your apron! The process is satisfying, and the results? Worth every second.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the diced celery and carrots. Cook until they soften, stirring occasionally. This step creates the aromatic foundation for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Bell Pepper and Rice
Next, incorporate the red bell pepper and the uncooked white rice. Stir them in, letting them mingle for a couple of minutes with the other ingredients. At this point, your kitchen will start smelling divine!
Step 3: Introduce the Liquids
Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot; that’s flavor, my friend! Next, add the clam juice and chicken stock, stirring everything together.
Step 4: Season It Up
Now it’s time for the fun part: seasoning! Stir in the tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and ground nutmeg. This blend of spices adds depth. Allow the soup to come to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Crab and Cream
Once your soup has simmered, gently fold in the fresh crab meat. Then, pour in the heavy cream and dry sherry, stirring carefully so the crab doesn’t break apart too much. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 6: Final Touches
Stir in the fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final step is crucial; it brings everything together wonderfully!
Notes
To ensure you achieve the perfect bowl of She Crab Soup, here are some essential tips:
- Opt for Fresh Crab: Always choose fresh crab meat. It elevates the dish.
- Stir Gently: When adding crab, use a light hand to preserve the lumps.
- Adjust Thickness: If you’d like a thicker soup, let it simmer longer.
- Use Quality Stock: Fresh chicken stock makes a noticeable difference. If using store-bought, try to choose low-sodium for better control over seasoning.
- Serve Hot: This soup is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because everyone loves this soup!), let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat on the stove, stirring gently to prevent burning. Creamy soups can sometimes curdle, so patience is key!
Nutrition Information
neiman marcus she crab soup recipe nutrition facts
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of your dining experience, consider pairing your Neiman Marcus She Crab Soup with:
- Warm Crusty Bread: For dipping and soaking up the creamy goodness.
- Side Salad: A light Caesar or garden salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Savory Sandwiches: Grilled cheese or a classic lobster roll offers a fun pairing.
- Sweet Cornbread: The sweetness contrasts perfectly with the savory soup flavors.
- Crackers: Oyster crackers or buttery crackers provide a delightful crunch.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Neiman Marcus She Crab Soup?
Sometimes you need to improvise or prefer different flavors. Here are substitutes worth considering:
- Crab Meat: Use shrimp or lobster for a different seafood flair.
- Chicken Stock: Vegetable stock is a great alternative for a lighter version.
- Heavy Cream: For a slightly lighter soup, use half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Dry White Wine: Chicken broth mixed with a splash of vinegar works in a pinch.
- Sherry: If sherry isn’t available, Madeira or a dry white wine can substitute.
Neiman Marcus She Crab Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
- 1 lb. of fresh crab meat
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 shallots finely chopped
- 2 stalks of celery finely diced
- 1 small carrot diced
- 1/4 cup of diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup of uncooked white rice
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons of concentrated tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- A pinch of ground nutmeg
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked white pepper to taste
- 2 cups of bottled clam juice
- 2 1/2 cups of chicken stock
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of diced green onions
- Freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of paprika for garnish
Instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the diced celery and carrots. Cook until they soften, stirring occasionally. This step creates the aromatic foundation for your soup.
- Next, incorporate the red bell pepper and the uncooked white rice. Stir them in, letting them mingle for a couple of minutes with the other ingredients. At this point, your kitchen will start smelling divine!
- Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot; that’s flavor, my friend! Next, add the clam juice and chicken stock, stirring everything together.
- Now it’s time for the fun part: seasoning! Stir in the tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and ground nutmeg. This blend of spices adds depth. Allow the soup to come to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
- Once your soup has simmered, gently fold in the fresh crab meat. Then, pour in the heavy cream and dry sherry, stirring carefully so the crab doesn’t break apart too much. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final step is crucial; it brings everything together wonderfully!
Notes
- Opt for Fresh Crab: Always choose fresh crab meat. It elevates the dish.
- Stir Gently: When adding crab, use a light hand to preserve the lumps.
- Adjust Thickness: If you’d like a thicker soup, let it simmer longer.
- Use Quality Stock: Fresh chicken stock makes a noticeable difference. If using store-bought, try to choose low-sodium for better control over seasoning.
- Serve Hot: This soup is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
In conclusion, Neiman Marcus She Crab Soup isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort. Each bowl creates a warm experience that draws you in with each savory spoonful.
Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer gathering or savoring it quietly at home, the joy it brings is profound. So, gather your ingredients, wear that apron, and whip up a pot of indulgence that’s sure to impress. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
