Description
A creamy and comforting seafood bisque featuring a delightful blend of crab and shrimp, perfect for both special occasions and casual dinners.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
- 1/2 pound cooked crab meat (shells removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup carrot (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp sherry (optional)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or dill for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped celery, carrot, and onion for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne pepper, allowing them to cook for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the tomato paste and bloom the spices.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 10-12 minutes.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in sherry for an added depth of flavor.
- Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.
- Add the chopped shrimp and crab meat, cooking for another 5 minutes until heated through.
- Season the bisque with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with your choice of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill.
Notes
Use fresh seafood for the best taste. For a creamier bisque, adjust the amount of heavy cream. Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning as needed.
