Low Country Boil Recipe: If you’re looking to make a big splash at your next gathering, the Low Country Boil is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This dish, often referred to as Frogmore Stew, has roots in South Carolina and Georgia, where it’s a beloved tradition for outdoor gatherings, particularly near the coast. It’s an all-in-one meal that combines shrimp, sausage, crab, potatoes, and corn, all boiled together in a flavorful broth. The best part? It’s served on newspaper for a fun, communal experience!

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about preparing and serving the perfect Low Country Boil, from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, we’ve got you covered, Low Country Boil Recipe.

What is Low Country Boil?

A Low Country Boil is a traditional Southern seafood dish that involves boiling shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, and potatoes in a seasoned broth. The dish gets its name from the “low country” regions of South Carolina and Georgia, where it is commonly made. It’s typically served on a large table covered with newspaper, allowing everyone to dive into the feast with their hands.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and how well the flavors meld together. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or outdoor cookouts.

Low Country Boil Recipe Ingredients

To make a delicious Low Country Boil, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s the breakdown of what you’ll need for a standard recipe that serves about 15 people:

These ingredients combine to create the hearty, flavorful components of the boil, making it a perfect dish for a large gathering.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Low Country Boil

Cooking a Low Country Boil is easy, but you’ll want to follow each step carefully to ensure that all the ingredients cook properly and the flavors blend perfectly.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure all the ingredients are ready:

• Wash and scrub the new potatoes to remove any dirt.
• Cut the kielbasa sausage into 1-inch pieces.
• Husk and remove the silks from the corn.
• Break the crab into pieces (if not already done).
• Peel and devein the shrimp.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes and Sausage

• Heat a large pot of water on your outdoor cooker or stovetop over medium-high heat.
• Add seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay) to the water, adjusting the amount to your taste.
• Once the water comes to a boil, add the potatoes and sausage.
• Boil these for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Corn and Crab

• After 10 minutes, break the corn ears in half and add them to the pot.
• Add the crab pieces to the pot as well.
• Let the mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

• Once the potatoes are almost tender, it’s time to add the shrimp.
• Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the shrimp are just cooked through.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

• Once everything is cooked, carefully drain the water from the pot.
• Pour the contents onto a large picnic table or surface covered with newspapers.
• Serve with paper plates and enjoy the communal feast!

What to Serve With Low Country Boil

While a Low Country Boil is a complete meal in itself, you may want to add a few sides to elevate the experience. Here are some Southern-inspired side dishes that pair perfectly with this seafood boil:

Southern Coleslaw

This tangy, creamy slaw is a great way to balance the rich, flavorful boil.

Cornbread

A warm, buttery cornbread is another classic Southern side that complements the seafood.

Collard Greens

Another Southern favorite, collard greens bring a savory, slightly bitter contrast to the boil.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

A typical serving of Low Country Boil is packed with flavor, but it’s also a hearty and nutritious meal. Here are the approximate nutrition facts for a serving of this dish:

The combination of seafood, potatoes, sausage, and vegetables makes this dish a well-rounded meal.

Low Country Boil Reviews

Many home cooks rave about how easy and delicious this dish is. Here are some of the standout reviews from the Allrecipes community:

Carol Thieme Watson:

“Delicious! I made this for a group while camping, and everyone loved it! The only change I made was adding mussels, and it was a great addition!”

Classie Norfleet:

“This recipe was fantastic! I added bay leaves and lemon to the boiling water for extra flavor, and my family loved it!”

These reviews reflect how adaptable the recipe is and how it’s perfect for gatherings and outdoor meals.

Tips and Praise from the Community

Here are some tips and praise from those who have tried the recipe:

• Adjust the seasoning: If you like things spicier, you can add a bit of cayenne pepper or more Old Bay to the boiling water.
• Add mussels or lobster: For an even more decadent boil, try adding mussels or lobster along with the crab and shrimp.
• Serve with a dipping sauce: For an added treat, serve melted butter or cocktail sauce on the side for dipping.
• Make it your own: You can adjust the proportions of ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Add more sausage, or include other types of seafood like clams or crawfish.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I make Low Country Boil indoors?

Yes, you can make a Low Country Boil indoors using a large stockpot on your stovetop. Just make sure to follow the same steps, adjusting the cooking times as needed.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work just as well as fresh shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the boil.

What kind of sausage should I use?

Kielbasa sausage is commonly used, but you can substitute with other smoked sausages, such as Andouille, for a spicier kick.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion