Description
This rich and creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque is the ultimate indulgence for seafood lovers. With succulent shrimp, sweet crab, and a velvety smooth broth, it’s the perfect comforting dish for a special dinner or holiday gathering. The savory flavors and creamy texture make this bisque an unforgettable treat!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
For the Seafood:
- 8 oz crab meat (preferably lump crab)
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Thickening (optional):
- 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thicker bisque)
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Make the Broth:
- Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Add the seafood stock, heavy cream, and milk. Stir well to combine. If using, sprinkle in the flour at this point to help thicken the bisque, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Seafood:
- Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Gently fold in the crab meat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the crab is warmed through.
- Blend (Optional):
- For a smoother bisque, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender until the soup reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, leave it as is for a chunkier texture.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf and discard.
- Ladle the bisque into bowls, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For a thicker bisque, feel free to add more flour or let the soup simmer for a longer time to reduce and thicken.
- If you prefer a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
- This bisque can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Seafood, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
Keywords: Seafood bisque, crab and shrimp bisque, creamy seafood soup, lobster bisque, shrimp bisque, crab soup