This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a rich and flavorful soup that blends the delicate sweetness of crab and shrimp with a luscious, creamy base. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal, this bisque is a true treat for seafood enthusiasts. The combination of fresh seafood, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of brandy or sherry creates a symphony of tastes that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Serve it as an elegant starter or a main course with crusty bread on the side for a meal to remember.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb crab meat, preferably lump or claw meat
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup brandy or dry sherry
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups seafood stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the brandy or dry sherry to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and let it cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This will help thicken the bisque.
- Gradually add the seafood stock or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk, followed by the Old Bay seasoning, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add the shrimp to the bisque and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, making sure it’s evenly distributed, and let it heat through for about 2 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the bisque to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother bisque, you can blend the entire soup, or you can leave it slightly chunky for more texture.
- Once the bisque has reached your desired texture, taste once again for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
- Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a luxurious and comforting dish that brings the best of the ocean to your bowl. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a special meal, this bisque will surely impress. The combination of fresh seafood and creamy texture makes it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves seafood.