# Luxurious Lobster Bisque
Wrap your taste buds around the rich, opulent flavors of this divine lobster bisque. Our recipe is perfect for a quiet, luxurious dinner at the end of a long day, or an elegant gathering with friends and family. Time to level up your seafood game!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
##Why Make This Recipe
Easy to master, this hearty and creamy bisque brings the essence of the sea to your menu. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll uncover the restaurant secret behind this classic French dish right in your kitchen.
##How to Make Luxurious Lobster Bisque
## Ingredients :
– 2 live lobsters (about 1 1/2 pounds each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup brandy
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 4 cups seafood stock
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
## Directions :
Follow these steps to create your masterpiece.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Throw in the lobsters and let them cook for 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove and cool. Extract the meat from the claws and tails, remember to save the shells and juices for the soup. Chop the meat and set it aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Throw in the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Stir until the vegetables soften, usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Carefully pour the brandy and ignite it safely. Allow the alcohol to burn off.
4. Pour in the white wine, let it simmer until it reduces slightly. Add in the seafood stock, tomato paste, paprika, bay leaf, saved lobster shells, and juices. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes.
5. Remove the bay leaf and lobster shells. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Strain it through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate pot to achieve a silky texture.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Ladle the bisque into bowls, stir in the chopped lobster meat, and garnish with chives or parsley. Serve hot.
##How to Serve Luxurious Lobster Bisque
This bisque is best served hot. Pair with a light dry white wine and a side of crusty French bread for a truly delightful culinary experience.
##How to Store Lobster Bisque
Pour any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within two days. Reheat on low heat, and do not let it boil.
##Tips to Make Luxurious Lobster Bisque
Remember to save the shells and juices when you cook the lobsters, these are packed with flavor and will greatly enhance the taste of your bisque. For extra creaminess, add in a dollop of crème fraîche before serving.
##Variation
For a different seafood blend and added complexity, try adding shrimp or crab to the mix.
##FAQs
1. Can I use a different alcohol other than brandy?
Yes, cognac or dry sherry can also be used.
2. Can this be made ahead and frozen?
It’s best to consume the bisque straight away but it can be frozen. Just bear in mind that cream-based soups can sometimes separate when thawed and reheated.
3. Can I use frozen lobster?
Absolutely! Thaw the lobster thoroughly before using and make sure you adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Get ready to impress with this lush and velvety lobster bisque, bringing an extraordinary fine dining experience into your home. Bon appétit!