Smoked Blue Crab Dip
The origin of smoked blue crab dip, like many culinary creations, is not definitively documented, but it likely emerged as a variation of traditional crab dip recipes that are popular in coastal regions, particularly in the southern United States where blue crabs are abundant.
Blue crabs are a common seafood delicacy along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, especially in states like Maryland, Virginia, and Louisiana. These regions have rich culinary traditions that include a variety of crab dishes, from crab cakes to crab soups and dips.
The concept of smoking seafood, including crab, is not new and has been practiced for centuries as a method of preserving and enhancing flavor. Smoking imparts a unique, smoky flavor to the crab meat, which can add depth and complexity to dishes like crab dip.
Smoked blue crab dip is one of our Summer favorites, follow along as we indulge in some sweet goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked blue crab meat, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 3 tablespoon Uncommon Flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to a temp range of 225-250°F (107-121°C) using a hardwood, or pellets, of your choice.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, lemon juice, and 2 tbsp Uncommon Flavor.
- Brush the mixture over the whole crab, ensuring they are generously coated.
- Once the smoker reaches the desired temperature range, place the whole crab directly on the smoker grates.
- Smoke the crab for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until they are heated through and infused with smoky flavor. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- When they are done, remove to a bowl and set off to the side to cool down before shredding.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the shredded smoked blue crab meat until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Season the dip with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the smoked blue crab dip with your choice of crackers, bread slices, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: Calories 180, Total Fat 15g, Saturated Fat 6g, Cholesterol 55mg, Sodium 350mg, Total Carbohydrate 2g, Dietary Fiber 0g, Sugars 1g, Protein 10g.
Reviews
"This smoked blue crab dip is absolutely divine! The smoky flavor of the crab really shines through, and the creamy texture is perfect for dipping." - Sarah
"I made this for a party and it was a huge hit! Everyone was asking for the recipe. Definitely a keeper!" - John