Sumptuous Seafood Bisque

🦞 Sumptuous Seafood Bisque 🦀

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 3 cups seafood stock (or fish stock)
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional but recommended)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 lb crab meat or lobster meat
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional: a splash of sherry or cognac at the end

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Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

   • In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Build Flavor:

   • Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
   • Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to make a roux.

3. Deglaze and Simmer:

   • Slowly pour in white wine (if using), stirring to deglaze the pot.
   • Gradually add seafood stock, whisking to avoid lumps.
   • Season with paprika, Old Bay, salt, and pepper.
   • Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes to meld flavors.

4. Blend for Smoothness:

   • Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender carefully) and blend until smooth and creamy.

5. Add Seafood and Cream:

   • Return bisque to gentle heat. Stir in cream.
   • Add shrimp and crab meat. Simmer until shrimp is cooked through, about 5 minutes.
   • Optional: Stir in a splash of sherry or cognac for extra richness.

6. Serve:

   • Ladle into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a swirl of cream.

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🫕 Serving Tip: Pair with crusty French bread or garlic toast for dipping.