Boiled crawfish is a deeply rooted culinary tradition in the southeastern United States, particularly in Louisiana. This recipe, popularized by figures like chef Justin Wilson, is known for its intense flavors and for being a social dish that brings families and friends together around the table. In Latin America, although crawfish are not as common as in the United States, in countries like Mexico they are also known as river shrimp or armored crabs, and in some parts of Central America they are prepared in similar stews. In Argentina and Chile, small crustaceans are enjoyed in different gastronomic contexts, though not in the traditional form of a spice boil like in American Southern cuisine.
This dish is characterized not only by its flavor but also by the ritual of preparation and consumption, where it is usually served in large quantities to celebrate special occasions or festivities, accompanied by corn, potatoes, and smoked sausage, thus creating a complete and very tasty meal.