Frogmore Stew, also known as Lowcountry Boil or Beaufort Boil, is a beloved and flavorful dish that originated in the coastal regions of South Carolina. Despite its name, Frogmore Stew does not actually contain frog meat but is a delightful combination of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes. This one-pot meal showcases the bountiful seafood and agricultural produce of the region, creating a vibrant and satisfying feast. With its roots in the Gullah Geechee culture and the fishing traditions of the South, Frogmore Stew has become a staple at backyard gatherings, seafood boils, and coastal celebrations. Whether enjoyed by the water’s edge or in the comfort of your own home, Frogmore Stew is sure to transport you to the coastal flavors of the Lowcountry.

Frogmore Stew traces its origins to the coastal town of Frogmore, South Carolina, a community located on St. Helena Island near Beaufort. The dish was originally created by local fishermen as a simple and hearty meal to feed their families and fellow fishermen after a day out on the water. The name “Frogmore” comes from the community where the stew was said to have been first prepared.

The recipe for Frogmore Stew reflects the abundant seafood and agricultural produce of the region. It typically consists of fresh shrimp, smoked sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes, all boiled together in a seasoned broth. The ingredients are cooked in layers, with the potatoes added first, followed by the sausage, corn, and finally the shrimp, ensuring that each component is cooked to perfection.

The Gullah Geechee people, who are descendants of enslaved Africans in the Lowcountry region, have played a significant role in preserving and popularizing Frogmore Stew. The Gullah Geechee culture is deeply intertwined with the coastal lifestyle, including fishing, farming, and cooking. They brought their rich culinary traditions from West Africa and adapted them to incorporate local ingredients, resulting in unique and flavorful dishes like Frogmore Stew.

Today, Frogmore Stew has become a beloved part of Southern and coastal cuisine, extending beyond the boundaries of Frogmore and Beaufort. It is a favorite dish at seafood boils, beach parties, and family gatherings, where friends and loved ones can come together to enjoy a communal and delicious feast.

PREP: 10 MIN.

COOK: 35 MIN.

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds large shrimp, unpeeled
• 1 pound smoked sausage, cut into chunks
• 8 ears of corn, shucked and halved
• 2 pounds small red or yellow potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (or a seafood boil seasoning of your choice)
• 2 lemons, halved
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Cocktail sauce or melted butter for serving

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Fill a large stockpot or Dutch oven with water, leaving enough space for the ingredients.
2. Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the halved potatoes to the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are just tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Add the chunks of smoked sausage and continue boiling for another 5 minutes.
5. Add the corn halves to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Finally, add the unpeeled shrimp to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
7. Drain the contents of the pot into a large colander or use a slotted spoon to transfer the ingredients to a large serving platter.
8. Sprinkle the Old Bay seasoning evenly over the boiled ingredients, squeezing the juice from the halved lemons on top.
9. Garnish the Frogmore Stew with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
10. Serve the Frogmore Stew hot, accompanied by cocktail sauce or melted butter for dipping the shrimp and with extra Old Bay seasoning on the side for those who desire more spice.

NOTES:

• Frogmore Stew is a delightful and communal dish that captures the essence of the coastal flavors of the Lowcountry. The combination of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all cooked together in a seasoned broth, creates a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether enjoyed at a seaside gathering or in the comfort of your own home, Frogmore Stew is a tribute to the rich culinary heritage and communal spirit of the South.