Decadent Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque, a luxurious soup that combines tender seafood with a velvety base. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal at home, this bisque is both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup heavy whipping cream
8 ounces fresh crab meat
4 to 8 ounces small cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons dry sherry (optional)
Salt to taste
Chopped fresh parsley or chives 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, cooking until they become tender and fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes.
Create 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.
Incorporate Milk: In a separate saucepan, gently warm the milk over medium heat until it's just below boiling. Gradually add the warmed milk to the roux, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
Add Seasonings: Stir in the black pepper, tomato paste, and heavy whipping cream. For a smoother texture, you may choose to puree the soup at this stage using an immersion blender or by carefully transferring it to a blender in batches.
Introduce Seafood: Add the crab meat and cooked shrimp to the soup, gently stirring to combine. If using, pour in the dry sherry. Allow the bisque to simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors, ensuring the seafood is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Serve: Ladle the hot bisque into bowls, garnishing each with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish for any seafood lover. Its creamy base and tender seafood pieces create a harmonious blend that's both comforting and indulgent.
