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Creamy Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

A luxurious soup that combines the sweetness of crab and shrimp in a velvety cream base, perfect for any special occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Appetizer, Soup
Cuisine American, Seafood
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Bisque

  • 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled, deveined and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 ounces premium lump crabmeat, carefully checked for shell fragments
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups seafood or chicken stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for richer flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground pepper

For Garnish

  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped
  • as needed Artisanal bread or oyster crackers for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Begin by melting butter in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
  • Add onion and celery, cooking until translucent and tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  • Incorporate minced garlic and continue cooking for one minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown.

Create the Roux

  • Gradually sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

Build the Base

  • Slowly whisk in the stock, ensuring a smooth consistency without lumps.
  • Add tomatoes (if using), smoked paprika, cayenne, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  • Bring to a gentle simmer and allow to cook for 10-15 minutes, developing depth of flavor.

Add the Seafood

  • Introduce the chopped shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque (3-4 minutes).
  • Gently fold in the delicate crabmeat, heating through for 2-3 minutes while preserving its natural texture.

Finish with Cream

  • Lower the heat and incorporate the heavy cream with gentle stirring.
  • Warm the bisque thoroughly without allowing it to boil, which could cause curdling.
  • Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve and Garnish

  • Ladle the finished bisque into warmed bowls, garnish with fresh parsley.
  • Serve alongside crusty bread or crackers for a complete dining experience.

Notes

Select the freshest seafood available. Store leftovers properly, refrigerating for up to three days in airtight containers. Consider freezing the base without cream for longer storage.
Keyword Crab Bisque, creamy soup, Elegant Dinner, Seafood Soup, Shrimp Recipe