In Love with the Mudbug

Crayfish, crawfish, crawdad….call it what you want, but call me when you serve it! When daffodils start popping up and the pear trees bloom this southern girl starts thinking about delicious little mudbugs!

Don’t turn up your nose! They’re related to the lobster---the kissing country cousin. Crawfish boils are the easiest and most fun way to entertain in the spring. All you need is a big pot, a yard, and a roll of paper towels :) !

THIS is my favorite way to eat crawfish—seasoned and boiled in a huge pot with lots of corn and potatoes. However, it’s still just a bit early for my cravings so I made an easy and delicious alternative until the real thing arrives.

And it’s made completely in the microwave….you read it right! I confess I am something of a snob about microwaves….great for reheating or thawing. But COOKING…..a REAL meal…..no way. But this works and no one will ever suspect :). I’ve been making it so long that I have no idea where I got the recipe, but I have given out by request lots!

Crayfish Delicacy

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 small onion, chopped

1 stalk celery, chopped

1/2 small green bell pepper, chopped

1 pound frozen crayfish tails, thawed and chopped

3 tablespoons flour

1 envelope prepared beef stew seasoning mix

4 green onions, chopped

1/4 chopped fresh parsley

3 cups hot water

1/4 teaspoon red pepper

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Microwave first 5 ingredients in a casserole dish on high for 6-8 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Stir in flour and remaining ingredients. Microwave uncovered on high for 15 minutes, stirring twice. Cover and continue to cook at 50 % power for 15 minutes stirring twice. Serve over hot rice.

EASY!!! You can cook and serve in the same dish. Buy a bag of salad and a loaf of French bread and dinner is served!

The food stylist had the day off :) so this picture may not do the taste justice! I am joining our dear Michael Lee West at Designs by Gollum for Foodie Friday! Michael’s latest book Gone With a Handsomer Man will be out in April. Check out your invitation to a launch party given by Laurie at Chatting and Bargain Hunting with Laurie by clicking on the Foodie Friday button on the sidebar! I can’t wait!!!!

Thanks to all of you who shared their “Grandma” names with me. You are, as always, a creative and gracious bunch! Leave me note :)~~Susan