🇺🇸 USA · Food
Classic Lowcountry Boil (Frogmore Stew)
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
A vibrant, communal feast from the American South, this Lowcountry Boil features a delightful medley of fresh shrimp, smoked sausage, sweet corn on the cob, and tender potatoes. Cooked together in a spicy, seasoned broth, it's a rustic and incredibly flavorful experience perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Fill a very large stockpot (at least 12-16 quart capacity) with enough water to cover all ingredients, leaving about 4-5 inches of space from the rim. Add 1/2 cup Old Bay seasoning (or similar seafood boil seasoning), 2 lemons halved, and 1 quartered large onion. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- 2
Once boiling, add 2 lbs small red potatoes to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender when pierced with a fork.
- 3
Add 1.5 lbs smoked sausage (like kielbasa or andouille), cut into 1-inch pieces, and 4 ears of corn, halved. Continue to boil for another 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Stir in 2 lbs raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, or shell-on for more flavor). Cook for only 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook.
- 5
Carefully drain the entire contents of the pot into a large colander. Pour the boil directly onto a newspaper-covered table or a large serving platter.
- 6
Serve immediately with melted butter, extra lemon wedges, and hot sauce on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of sausage is best for a classic Lowcountry Boil?+
For an authentic Lowcountry Boil, use a pre-cooked, smoked sausage like Andouille, kielbasa, or a good quality smoked pork sausage. These varieties add a robust, savory flavor that is essential to the dish.
How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked in a Lowcountry Boil?+
Shrimp are done when they turn opaque pink and curl into a loose "C" shape; a tight "O" shape means they've overcooked and will be rubbery. Since they cook very fast, usually 2-3 minutes, add them last to prevent overcooking.
What's the correct order to add ingredients to ensure everything cooks evenly in a Lowcountry Boil?+
To prevent overcooking softer items, add ingredients in stages: start with potatoes and sausage, then introduce the corn, and finally add the quick-cooking shrimp right at the end. This staggered approach ensures every component reaches its ideal tenderness.
Can I use frozen corn on the cob or frozen shrimp for a Lowcountry Boil, and if so, how?+
Yes, you can use frozen corn on the cob, adding it a few minutes earlier than fresh to ensure it's heated through. For frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before adding to maintain the short cooking time and prevent overcooking other ingredients.
Mundo Match
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