ADVERTISEMENT
A decadent seafood bisque that combines the sweetness of crab and shrimp with a creamy, flavorful base. This dish is ideal for an indulgent dinner or a special occasion, bringing the taste of the ocean right to your table.
Ingredients
For the Bisque Base:
1/2 lb lump crab meat
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups seafood stock
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: Crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.
2️⃣ Build the Flavor
Sprinkle in the paprika and cayenne pepper (if using), stirring to coat the onion and garlic evenly.
Pour in the seafood stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Allow it to cook for 10 minutes, letting the flavors blend beautifully.
3️⃣ Add Creamy Goodness
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream.
Let it cook for 5 minutes, ensuring the cream warms up without boiling.
4️⃣ Add the Seafood
Carefully add the shrimp and lump crab meat to the pot.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
5️⃣ Season and Serve
Taste the bisque and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed.
Remove from heat and ladle into bowls.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty French bread, garlic toast, or buttery crackers to soak up the flavorful broth.
A crisp green salad on the side balances the rich creaminess of the bisque.
For an elevated presentation, drizzle a swirl of heavy cream on top or add a few whole shrimp as a garnish.
Nutritional Benefits
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Crab and shrimp are excellent sources, promoting heart health.
Protein: Both seafoods provide lean, high-quality protein.
Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and iodine.
Cooking Tips
Fresh is Best: Use the freshest seafood you can find for the sweetest, most delicate flavors.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preference or omit it for a milder bisque.
Blending Option: For an ultra-smooth bisque, blend half the soup before adding the seafood.
Time and Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4