Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of this Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque, a luxurious seafood soup perfect for special occasions or cozy nights. This velvety bisque combines tender crab meat, succulent shrimp, and aromatic spices, creating a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ lb cooked crab meat, shells removed
- ½ lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 2 tbsp sherry (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or chives)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomato Paste & Spices: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle in flour and stir well. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Broth: Slowly pour in the broth, stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Blend for Smoothness: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If using a standard blender, blend in batches and return to the pot.
- Add Cream & Seafood: Stir in heavy cream, crab meat, and shrimp. Add sherry (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute or add lobster or scallops for extra richness.
- Adjust cayenne for more or less heat.
- For a more herbaceous flavor, add thyme or tarragon while simmering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American