Creamy Lobster Bisque is a luxurious and indulgent seafood soup that features tender chunks of lobster meat in a rich, velvety, and flavorful cream-based broth. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home. The bisque is seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that complement the sweetness of the lobster.
Ingredients:
- 2 whole lobsters (about 1.5 pounds each)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 4 cups seafood or lobster stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Begin by cooking the lobsters. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the lobsters. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the lobsters are bright red and fully cooked. Remove the lobsters from the pot and let them cool.
- Once the lobsters are cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the shells. Set the meat aside and reserve the shells.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Pour in the white wine and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the reserved lobster shells, seafood stock, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove the pot from the heat and discard the lobster shells and bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Return the pureed soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add the reserved lobster meat to the pot and gently heat until the lobster is warmed through.
- Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional freshly ground black pepper if desired.
Serve: Serve the Creamy Lobster Bisque hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a luxurious seafood dish that is both visually appealing and delicious. The combination of tender lobster meat, creamy broth, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a gourmet treat at home, this Creamy Lobster Bisque is sure to be a hit.