Crab and Shrimp Seafood

 

Crab and Shrimp Seafood 

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a rich and creamy soup that combines the delicate flavors of crab and shrimp, making it a delightful choice for seafood lovers. Here's a unique take on this classic dish:

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions

2 tablespoons finely chopped celery

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2½ cups whole milk, warmed

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 cup heavy whipping cream

8 ounces fresh lump crab meat, picked over for shells

4 to 8 ounces small cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons dry sherry (optional)

Salt to taste

Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Sauté Aromatics:

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-low heat.

Add the chopped green onions and celery, sautéing until they are tender and fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes.

Create the Roux:

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring continuously to form a smooth paste.

Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, ensuring it doesn't brown.

Incorporate Dairy:

Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, ensuring a smooth consistency.

Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Seasonings and Cream:

Stir in the freshly ground black pepper and tomato paste until fully integrated.

Pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring to combine.

Allow the bisque to heat through without bringing it to a boil.

Blend for Smoothness (Optional):

For a velvety texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture in batches to a countertop blender, then return it to the saucepan.

Introduce Seafood:

Gently fold in the crab meat and cooked shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the bisque.

If using, add the dry sherry at this stage.

Allow the soup to simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Season and Serve:

Taste the bisque and adjust seasoning with salt and additional pepper as needed.

Ladle the hot bisque into serving bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and added flavor.

This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or an elegant appetizer. Enjoy the harmonious blend of rich cream and succulent seafood in every spoonful!