Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a rich and creamy soup featuring succulent pieces of crab and shrimp. Infused with aromatic herbs, spices, and a touch of sherry, this bisque offers a luxurious, velvety texture and a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for a comforting and elegant meal.
Ingredients:
- For the Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup carrot, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For Thickening:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- For the Liquid:
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons sherry (optional)
- For the Seafood:
- 1/2 pound cooked crab meat, shells removed
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion, celery, and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Season the Base:
- Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Thicken the Soup:
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Cook for another minute.
- Add the Liquid:
- Gradually add the broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Blend the Soup:
- Puree the soup until smooth using an immersion blender, or transfer to a standard blender in batches.
- Finish the Soup:
- Mix in the heavy cream and simmer for 10 more minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the Seafood:
- Add the crab meat, shrimp, and sherry (if using).
- Simmer for 5 minutes or until the seafood is heated through, keeping the heat low to avoid curdling the cream.
- Season and Serve:
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Enjoy your delicious Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque! 🦀🍤
