Instructions: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Saute the onion and celery in the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until very limp. Let cool completely, then mix with the saltines. Squeeze the juice of 1/2 lemon, more or less to taste, over the crabmeat. Lightly fold the crabmeat into the mixture so that you do not break it up. Season to taste with sherry. Pack into shells and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, until just heated through and lightly browned on top.

This recipe serves 8 to 10.

Comments: Deviled crabs in the Lowcountry are often called simply "debl."

This recipe is from Alice Marks, one of Charlestons great cooks. She packs the devil into crab backs or scallop shells, wraps them well in aluminum foil, then freezes them for reheating later. One filled shell makes a rich appetizer or supper dish; serve two as dinner.

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