Shake things up

Shake things up

Shake things up

What began as a peculiarity of the Chesapeake Bay population, grew into a Maryland obsession and a Baltimore cult following. The power of Old Bay transcends its signature flavor, and has so thoroughly seduced locals that they never hesitate to assure non-natives that the only correct way to season steamed crabs is with a generous coating of that much-loved spice.

Marylanders decided long ago that Old Bay's enhancements augment more than just seafood, now sprinkling it on everything from potato chips to fine steaks, from breakfast to dinner, from foods to beverages. (Really, what's a bloody Mary without an Old Bay rim?)

Throughout our travels, Metromix has been blessed enough to find Old Bay on a variety of appetizers and now we share them with you.--Mark Gross