Why You’ll Love This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
- Flavorful and Hearty: Packed with the fresh taste of seafood in every bite.
- Rich and Comforting: A creamy, velvety soup that’s perfect for cozy nights.
- Elegant Yet Easy: Simple ingredients come together to create a sophisticated dish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Ladle: For serving.
- Large pot: For cooking the bisque.
- Immersion blender or regular blender: To achieve that smooth, creamy texture.
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Description
There’s something luxurious about the creamy, rich flavors of this Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque. It’s the perfect dish to warm up on a chilly evening or to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal. This bisque is simple to make, yet bursting with the delicate flavors of fresh seafood, herbs, and a silky base.
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Ingredients
To make this bisque, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and prevents butter from burning.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: For a base of sweetness and depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: For a boost of aromatic flavor.
- 1 carrot, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced: Balances the flavors with a touch of earthiness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken the bisque.
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious, creamy texture.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Enhances the seafood flavors.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a slight kick of heat.
- 8 oz cooked crab meat: Sweet and tender, the star of the dish.
- 8 oz cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped: Adds a delicate, briny flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To bring all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, bright finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat.
- Gradually add the seafood or chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Blend for Creaminess
- Using an immersion blender (or transferring the soup to a regular blender in batches), blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings
- Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the Seafood
- Gently fold in the crab meat and shrimp. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh crab and shrimp elevate the flavors, but frozen works well in a pinch.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the bisque a day in advance for even deeper flavors; just reheat gently before serving.
- Add Extra Flavor: A splash of lemon juice brightens the bisque just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling.
- Freeze: Bisque can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use imitation crab for this recipe?
A: Yes, imitation crab can work as a budget-friendly alternative, though the flavor may be less rich.
Q2: Can I make this bisque dairy-free?
A: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Q3: What can I use instead of shrimp?
A: You can substitute with scallops or additional crab meat for a similar flavor profile.
Conclusion: A Decadent Delight
This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a comforting, elegant dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a weeknight treat. Its rich, creamy base combined with the delicate sweetness of seafood makes it a favorite for all seafood lovers.
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Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
Enjoy every spoonful of this indulgent seafood bisque, and don’t forget to share the love with family and friends!
