Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Why make this recipe

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a warm and comforting dish that brings the taste of the ocean straight to your table. This creamy soup combines the rich flavors of shrimp and crab, making it a delightful choice for seafood lovers. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, providing a touch of elegance without requiring advanced cooking skills. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover cooked seafood, making it not just tasty but also economical.

How to make Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound cooked shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
• 1/2 pound cooked crab meat (shells removed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup carrot (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp sherry (optional)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or dill for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped celery, carrot, and onion for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the tomato paste and bloom the spices.
4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer the bisque for 10-12 minutes until it thickens. Stir in sherry (if using) for extra flavor.
6. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream. Stir in the chopped shrimp and crab meat, cooking for 5 more minutes until heated through.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill.

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How to serve Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Serve the bisque hot in bowls. It pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad. You can also offer a sprinkle of extra herbs on top for added freshness. This bisque makes a great starter for a dinner party or can be a satisfying main course.

How to store Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

To store the bisque, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze it. Just be sure to leave a little space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as it freezes. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to make Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

• For a brighter flavor, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving.
• Make sure to use fresh seafood for the best taste.
• You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper based on your preference.
• If you want a thicker bisque, let it simmer a bit longer or add more flour.

Variation

You can customize this bisque by adding other seafood like scallops or lobster for a more luxurious version. Additionally, you might consider incorporating vegetables like corn or peas for extra texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use raw shrimp or crab in this recipe?
It’s best to use cooked shrimp and crab, as the cooking time in the bisque is not long enough to ensure safety for raw seafood.

Can I make this bisque ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bisque up to a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving and avoid boiling to keep it creamy.

What should I serve with the bisque?
This bisque pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even a glass of white wine for a complete meal.