Crab Boil

A blend of herbs and spices that are used as a seasoning in the water in which the shellfish are boiled. A typical blend used to add a flavor to the water for shrimp, crab or lobster may include: mustard seed, whole allspice berries, coriander, whole cloves, dried bay leaves, cracked dried ginger, peppercorns, chili pepper, dill seed, and caraway seed. The ingredients are mixed together and often placed in a muslin bag similar to a bouquet garni, before being dropped into the water prior to boiling. After the shellfish has boiled sufficiently, remove the shellfish and do not rinse in order to retain the flavor of the crab boil. Typically, 4 to 6 tablespoons of crab boil herbs and spices are used per gallon of water.