Creamy Coastal Bliss The Ultimate Seafood Bisque Recipe

Creamy Coastal Bliss: The Ultimate Seafood Bisque Recipe

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Dive into a bowl of luxurious seafood bisque, a rich and velvety soup brimming with the ocean’s finest treasures. Infused with aromatic herbs, white wine, and a decadent cream base, this bisque elevates shrimp, lobster, and crab into a symphony of flavors. Whether for a special dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe promises indulgence in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

Seafood Stock:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Shells from 1 pound shrimp or lobster
  • 1 onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup white wine
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf

Bisque:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups seafood stock (from above)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 1/2 pound cooked lobster or crab meat, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley and chives for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Seafood Stock:
    • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add shrimp or lobster shells and sauté until aromatic, about 5 minutes.
    • Add onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes.
    • Pour in water and white wine, then add thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Strain the stock and set aside.
  2. Make the Bisque Base:
    • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
    • Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
    • Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Simmer the Bisque:
    • Slowly add the seafood stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
    • Stir in white wine and heavy cream, and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the bisque to thicken slightly.
  4. Add the Seafood:
    • Add the chopped shrimp, lobster, and/or crab meat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve:
    • Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and chives.
    • Serve with crusty bread or a side of garlic butter croutons for dipping.

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