Broken Crab and Okra Stew

• 4–6 raw blue crabs
• 2–3 fatback bacon strips
• 1 medium onion, cut into wedges

Pour boiling water on the crabs to stun them so you won’t get pinched. “Debark” and clean them (remove the top shell and gills), break them in half, and, if desired, remove their legs and back fins. Fry the bacon in a large skillet, then add the crab pieces, onion, water, and if desired, stewed tomatoes. Add salt and pepper to taste and simmer 15 minutes; add the okra and boil gently, stirring