How to: Hosting A Crawfish Boil Party

Summer is officially here and with that comes barbecues, bikinis, and fun in the sun. But instead of bringing in the summer season with a traditional barbecue, why not add a little cajun spice to your next backyard get together with a good ol’ Southern Seafood boil? As a southern tradition meant to embrace the summer heat, what better way to gather family and friends together to enjoy some cool drinks in hand and a flavorful spread of fresh seafood.  Here is a list of Crawfish Boil party ideas and must haves for your next get together: 

Menu

Dishes

The popular choice eaten at a traditional southern boil is crawfish. But if you’re having a little trouble finding quality crawfish on this side of the country then feel free to stray a little from tradition and use crab, shrimp, mussels, lobster coupled with a spicy andouille sausage along with locally sourced corn and potatoes. Now one of the most important parts to this whole boil are your spices. Be sure to do your research when it comes your recipe of choice. The broth spices are everything, and really help to embody the flavor of your dish. And lets be honest who doesn’t want flavors dancing on your tongue like a Mardi Gras parade down Bourbon street.

Drinks

Nothing keeps guests happier than an ice cold drink in their hand. Whether that be a refreshing sweet iced tea or something a little stronger, the rule of thumb would be to have something for everyone. If alcohol libations are more your guests style, then there definitely is a variety to choose from. Deciding on the perfect drink menu can be slightly challenging if you yourself aren’t a drink so be sure to consult the advice of your closest beer / cocktail aficionado. Here's a perfect cocktail recipe to go with your menu: 

Cajun Lemonade Recipe

Ingredients

1 (12-oz.) can frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed

1 (1-liter) bottle club soda, chilled

Garnishes: sugarcane sticks, lemon slices

2 cups light rum 

1 teaspoon hot sauce 

Crushed ice

Directions:

Stir together first 3 ingredients. Add club soda just before serving. Serve over crushed ice. Garnish, if desired.

Decorations

Table Decor

For a more rustic and traditional feel consider having newspaper or butcher paper as the tablecloth which can also act as an actual serving space for your food. However, if you would like to opt for a less messy approach, then serve the seafood on large white platters but be sure to place in the center so everyone can share family style. You can choose to have serving utensils and plates as well, but they really aren’t necessary and most guests enjoy getting a little messy eating with their hands. 

Lighting

Whether you do the event indoors or outdoors, I am a firm believer that candles add a certain sparkle to any event. Consider using votive with a burlap or blue and white ribbon wrapped around it as your votive holder. Fill the jar with sand and a white candle. I also love the ideas of paper lanterns hanging or bistro lights if the event you’re having will go into the evening.

Plates & Glasses

For drinking glasses, I personally love the idea and look of mason jars. But if beer is on the menu then beer bottles it is. As a final note, keep in mind that when it comes to decorating for a southern boil, simpler is better. The main focal point of decor at your boil should be the food so don't get caught up in too many decoration details.

Music 

Your playlist should include the blues. Granted that something more lively might be better depending on your guests, you can choose to hire live musicians or stream directly from your iPhone. Whatever your preference is, be sure not to forget this very important element to your get together because at the very least, it will help to fill in and avoid any awkward silence.