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Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
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A rich, creamy, and flavor-packed Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque combining tender crab meat and succulent shrimp in a velvety broth with perfectly balanced spices. This comforting soup is quick and easy to prepare, ideal for cozy nights, elegant dinners, or special celebrations, and customizable to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood

  • 8 oz fresh crab meat (lump or claw)
  • 8 oz medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Optional: 2 oz scallops, lobster, or mussels for extra seafood

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

Liquids & Thickener

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups seafood stock or clam juice
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut/cashew cream for dairy-free)
  • 2 tbsp brandy or white wine (optional)

Seasonings & Garnish

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for spice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook gently for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, forming the flavor base for the bisque.
  2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle flour evenly over the softened vegetables. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste and help thicken the bisque, ensuring a rich, smooth texture.
  3. Add Liquids and Flavorings: Slowly pour in the seafood stock or clam juice while whisking to prevent lumps. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken and deepen in flavor for about 10 minutes.
  4. Blend for Smoothness: Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until smooth and velvety, creating the signature bisque creaminess.
  5. Add Seafood and Cream: Return the bisque to the stove. Stir in heavy cream and brandy or wine if using. Gently fold in crab meat and shrimp, cooking just until the seafood turns opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the seafood tender.
  6. Final Taste and Adjust: Taste the bisque and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or additional salt to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.

Notes

  • Use fresh seafood for best flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
  • Slow simmer to meld flavors and achieve a richer bisque.
  • Add seafood at the end to prevent overcooking.
  • For ultra-smooth texture, strain the blended mixture before adding cream and seafood.
  • Homemade seafood stock significantly enhances the flavor depth over store-bought stock.
  • Prep all ingredients ahead for a smooth cooking process.

Nutrition

Keywords: crab bisque, shrimp bisque, seafood bisque, creamy seafood soup, crab and shrimp recipe, bisque recipe, seafood soup, easy bisque

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/crab-and-shrimp-seafood-bisque/