## Creamy Seafood Bisque
Submerge yourself in a bowl of our luxurious Seafood Bisque that is both rich and comforting. This delicious meal unites an array of fresh seafood in a creamy broth that will leave you and your guests wanting more. Be sure to serve it with a side of crusty bread to mop up every last drop!
Time: Prep – 15 minutes | Cook – 40 minutes | Total – 55 minutes
## Why Make Seafood Bisque
This classic French soup is ideal for seafood lovers who crave a rich and culinary treat. The harmonizing flavors of shrimp and crab combined with the creamy, spicy broth creates a meal that is perfect for a cozy dinner or even as an impressive starter for a dinner party.
## How to Make Creamy Seafood Bisque
## Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 3 cups seafood or fish stock
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound crab meat
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
## Directions
1. Melt the butter on medium heat in a large pot. Quadrate the olive oil, onion, garlic, celery, and carrot to the pot. Sauté them until they turn soft. This should take about 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the vegetables with the flour and frequent stirring for 2-3 minutes to cook the flour.
3. Next, add the seafood stock and white wine slowly to the pot, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes thicker.
4. Lower the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
5. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can instead transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Remember to pour it back into the pot afterward.
6. Add the shrimp and crab meat to the mixture. Introduce the heavy cream and paprika to the pot. Cook until the seafood is done, around 5-7 minutes.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste. We recommend garnishing it with fresh parsley before serving.
## How to Serve Creamy Seafood Bisque
This luxurious dish works best as an appetizer for a fancy dinner, but it’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own. Don’t forget a side of crusty bread to soak in all the flavours!
## How to Store Creamy Seafood Bisque
Given the creamy nature of the soup, it’s best eaten immediately. However, if inevitable, store the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. You can keep it for up to three days. Reheat over low heat until thoroughly heated but not boiling to avoid curdling.
## Tips to Make Creamy Seafood Bisque
1. For an extra flavor burst, consider adding a splash of cognac or sherry along with the stock and wine.
2. Feel free to explore other types of seafood like scallops or lobster instead of shrimp and crabmeat.
3. If you prefer a richer soup, use half and half or full cream instead of heavy cream.
## Variations
For a vegetarian twist, replace fish stock with a vegetable broth and substitute seafood with an array of mushrooms.
For an Asian version, add a touch of coconut milk and Thai spices.
## FAQs
1. Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
2. What can be used as a substitute for white wine?
You can use white wine vinegar or lemon juice mixed with water.
3. How can I thicken my bisque if it’s too runny?
Create a mixture of cornstarch and water and add it to the soup. This will help to thicken it.
Indulge your senses with our delightful Seafood Bisque and enjoy a taste of the ocean with every spoonful.