Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Restaurant Style

Why make this recipe

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a rich and flavorful soup that brings the taste of the ocean right to your table. It’s perfect for any seafood lover or anyone wanting to impress guests with a delicious dish. The creamy texture, combined with the sweetness of crab and shrimp, makes this bisque a comforting and delightful meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh seafood and creates a warm atmosphere for any gathering.

How to make Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups seafood stock or fish broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup dry white cooking wine or seafood stock (non-alcoholic)
• 1 cup lump crab meat
• 1 cup medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Paprika for sprinkling
• Crusty bread or oyster crackers

Directions:

Prepare the Bisque Base:

1. In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and grated carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux, which will thicken the bisque.

Cook the Seafood:

4. Gradually pour in the seafood stock while stirring, making sure to avoid lumps.
5. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Add the heavy cream and white cooking wine or seafood stock, stirring well.
7. Mix in the lump crab meat, shrimp, smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.

Finish the Bisque:

8. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes.

Serve:

9. Ladle the bisque into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley and a dash of paprika. Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side.

How to serve Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Serve the bisque hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and paprika. Pair it with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a delightful crunch. It makes a perfect starter for a fancy dinner or a cozy family meal.

How to store Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

If you have leftovers, let the bisque cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened, you may want to add a little water or seafood stock to achieve your desired consistency.

Tips to make Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

• For the best flavor, use fresh seafood whenever possible.
• You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
• If you prefer a smooth bisque, use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth.
• Feel free to add other seafood like scallops or clams for variety.

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Variation

If you want to make it a bit more substantial, consider adding cooked potatoes or corn to the bisque for added texture. You can also substitute the lump crab meat with crab cakes for a different twist.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque?
Yes, you can freeze the bisque. Make sure it is cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months. However, cream-based soups can change consistency when thawed.

2. Can I make this bisque ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bisque a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.

3. What can I serve with this bisque?
Crusty bread or oyster crackers are great options to serve alongside this seafood bisque. A fresh green salad also pairs well for a complete meal.