Seafood bisque is a decadent soup bursting with the flavors of the ocean. This recipe combines the luxurious essence of crab, shrimp, and lobster in a smooth, velvety base enhanced by aromatic herbs and spices. Whether served as an appetizer or the main course, it promises a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Ingredients
For the Bisque Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup brandy or dry white wine (optional)
- 4 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Seafood:
- 1 cup cooked crab meat
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- SautΓ© Aromatics:
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sautΓ© for another minute. - Create the Roux:
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour loses its raw smell. - Add Tomato Paste and Liquids:
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for a minute. Slowly deglaze the pot with brandy or wine, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the seafood stock and bring to a simmer. - Blend for Smoothness:
Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Return the soup to the pot. - Incorporate Cream and Seasoning:
Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes. - Add Seafood:
Gently fold in the crab, shrimp, and lobster meat. Allow the seafood to heat through for 5 minutes without boiling. - Serve:
Ladle the bisque into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the seafood for roasted vegetables like mushrooms or squash, and use vegetable stock.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeΓ±o or increase the cayenne pepper.
- Additional Seafood: Include scallops or clams for extra depth.
- Low-Carb: Replace the flour with almond flour or omit it for a thinner soup.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Pour cooled bisque into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating:
- Thaw frozen bisque overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, thaw the seafood completely and pat it dry before adding it to the bisque. - What can I substitute for seafood stock?
Chicken stock or vegetable stock works well in a pinch, though seafood stock provides the best flavor. - Is it necessary to blend the bisque?
Blending gives the bisque its signature creamy texture, but you can skip this step if you prefer a chunkier soup. - Can I make this bisque ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the base in advance and add the seafood when reheating. - Whatβs the best wine for this recipe?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the seafood flavors. - How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Avoid boiling the bisque after adding the cream and reheat on low heat. - Can I use imitation crab or lobster?
While not ideal, imitation seafood can be used as a budget-friendly option. - What side dishes pair well with seafood bisque?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad make excellent accompaniments. - How can I make this gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch. - Can I use shell-on seafood?
Yes, but remove the shells before adding to the bisque for easier eating.
Conclusion
Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster is the ultimate indulgence for seafood lovers. This elegant dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor while being simple enough to prepare at home. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this bisque is guaranteed to impress.