County Kerry crab boil

Here is my basic recipe for a classic summer crab boil that is especially fun to host as a small dinner party – al fresco if weather permits. The crab boil is more a method than a recipe; the fun of it is in the preparation and the laidback eating ritual is what makes it especially delicious. We like to invite a few friends or neighbours over for Sunday lunch and serve up the boil under the horse chestnut trees with ice-cold craft cider, elderflower or apple blossom cordial on the side.