Maryland Creamy Seafood Medley Soup

If you’re craving the authentic taste of the Chesapeake Bay, this Maryland Creamy Seafood Medley Soup is the answer. This rich, savory soup combines the best of Maryland’s seafood with a creamy base and a touch of Old Bay seasoning for that unmistakable coastal flavor. Ideal for any season, this recipe is easy enough for a cozy weeknight meal yet sophisticated enough to impress guests at a dinner party. Here’s how you can bring a taste of Maryland’s finest into your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Maryland Creamy Seafood Medley Soup

This seafood soup brings together crab and shrimp in a luxuriously creamy broth that’s seasoned to perfection. The combination of heavy cream, seafood stock, and white wine adds layers of flavor, while smoked paprika and Old Bay give it a slightly smoky, subtly spicy kick. Pair it with crusty bread or a crisp salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s satisfying, elegant, and perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Ingredients

Before diving into the steps, here’s a look at the star ingredients that make this soup a standout:

• Fresh Crab Meat: The sweet, tender crab brings out the best of Maryland’s coastal bounty.
• Shrimp: Adds a lovely texture and mild flavor that complements the crab.
• Seafood Stock and Heavy Cream: The foundation of the soup, providing a velvety, rich texture.
• Old Bay Seasoning: No Maryland-inspired dish is complete without this classic seasoning blend.
• Dry White Wine: Adds acidity and enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood.
• Smoked Paprika: A hint of smokiness to elevate the depth of the soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh crab meat, picked over for shells
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups seafood stock
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about five minutes until the onion is translucent. The aromas will start filling your kitchen, giving a preview of the flavors to come.
2. Create the Roux
   Stir in the flour, cooking for about one minute. This forms the roux, which will give the soup its creamy thickness.
3. Add the Liquid Ingredients
   Gradually pour in the seafood stock and white wine, whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Incorporate the Cream and Seasonings
   Add the heavy cream, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together for a smooth, creamy consistency.
5. Add the Seafood
   Gently fold in the crab meat and shrimp. Allow the soup to cook for an additional five minutes, just until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through.
6. Garnish and Serve
   Remove the soup from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfecting Your Seafood Medley Soup

• Use Fresh Seafood: The freshness of the crab and shrimp makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer, stirring occasionally.
• Wine Selection: A dry white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best, adding acidity without overpowering the seafood.

Enjoying Your Maryland Creamy Seafood Medley Soup

This Maryland-inspired creamy seafood soup is a delicious reminder of the Chesapeake Bay’s charm and flavors. Whether you’re serving it to guests or savoring it on a quiet night at home, each spoonful delivers comfort, warmth, and a taste of Maryland’s seafood heritage. Give it a try and bring the heart of the East Coast to your table!