Nothing says Canadian summer quite like a delicious seafood boil. Packed with fresh seafood from coast to coast, these boils are the perfect centrepiece for any summer gathering with family and friends. Plus, with a variety of sides to complement your seafood spread, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable evening. So, grab your lobster bib and get ready to dig in!
How to Make a Seafood Boil
Making a seafood boil is easier than you might think, and it’s the perfect way to enjoy fresh seafood with friends and family. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Choose a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, crab, lobster, mussels and clams. Don’t forget your sides, like corn on the cob and baby potatoes for added flavour and heartiness. You’ll also need seasonings like garlic, lemon, butter, Cajun spices, salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Pot
Fill a large stockpot with enough water to cover your ingredients. Add seasoning and bring water to boil.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Start by adding potatoes to the pot as they take the longest to cook. Let it simmer and then add the corn. Continue to cook until both the potatoes and corn are tender.
Step 4: Add the Seafood
Add the seafood last, as it cooks the quickest. Start with the shellfish, like clams and mussels, then add shrimp and lobster. Make sure to keep an eye on the pot! Seafood cooks quickly and should only take about 5-7 minutes to become tender and juicy.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once everything is cooked, drain the water, then pour the contents onto a tray. Drizzle with melted butter, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of herbs for a delicious finishing touch. Enjoy!
East Coast Seafood Boil
Make the most of the Atlantic’s fresh catch this summer with an East Coast Seafood Boil! Begin with fresh seafood staples like lobster, shrimp, and mussels to capture that authentic coastal flavour, and season with classic Old Bay, melted butter and fresh lemon to let the natural flavours shine. As an optional step, add a splash of clam-style tomato juice to help elevate the taste!
West Coast Seafood Boil
Transport your taste buds to the Pacific shores with a West Coast Seafood Boil! Start with fresh favourites like Dungeness crab, shrimp, and clams, and add Pacific oysters and fresh scallops for an extra touch. Season with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs like parsley and thyme for a bold, zesty kick. To help enhance the broth, try a splash of white wine or even beer for depth and richness. Top it all off with a generous drizzle of melted butter and serve alongside roasted corn and baby potatoes for a true West Coast-style feast.
What to Serve with a Seafood Boil
No seafood boil is complete without the perfect side dishes to complement the rich, savoury seafood. Here are some delicious options to round out your feast:
- Corn on the cob: Sweet, tender corn on the cob is a classic companion to any seafood boil. Grilled or boiled, its natural sweetness complements the savoury flavours of seafood perfectly.
- Baby potatoes: Roasted or boiled, baby potatoes are another essential side that pairs very well with flavourful broth.
- Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and helps balance the richness of the seafood.
- Garlic bread: Who doesn’t love a buttery, garlicky loaf of bread? It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious broth from the seafood boil.
