Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster

Seafood bisque is an elegant, creamy soup that’s rich in flavor and texture. This classic dish brings the sea to your table, combining the delicate sweetness of crab, shrimp, and lobster. It’s perfect for impressing guests or serving on a special occasion. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to elevate your cooking, this seafood bisque recipe will satisfy your cravings for something luxurious yet comforting. The combination of fresh seafood, savory broth, and a creamy base creates a perfect blend of flavors. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop!

Ingredients:

• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb lump crab meat
• ½ lb lobster meat, cooked and chopped
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup dry white wine (optional; replace with vegetable broth for non-alcoholic)
• 2 cups seafood or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1:

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 2:

Once the onion and garlic are softened, stir in the flour to form a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the bisque. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps and to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3:

Gradually pour in the white wine (or vegetable broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version), whisking constantly to keep the mixture smooth. Then, add the seafood or vegetable broth while continuing to whisk, ensuring that the liquid is fully incorporated without clumps.

Step 4:

Next, add the tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to blend the flavors, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes. This step allows the broth to develop a deep, rich flavor as the spices and tomato paste meld together.

Step 5:

Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring the mixture back to a simmer. The cream will add a silky texture and richness to the bisque. Be careful not to let the soup boil after adding the cream, as it could cause the cream to curdle.

Step 6:

Add the shrimp, lump crab meat, and chopped lobster to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, just until the seafood is heated through. Shrimp should turn pink and firm, but avoid overcooking as seafood can become tough if heated for too long.

Step 7:

Remove the pot from the heat and garnish the bisque with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the bisque hot and fresh, alongside slices of crusty bread or a green salad.

Cooking Note:

• If you prefer a smoother bisque, you can blend the soup before adding the seafood. Simply use an immersion blender or transfer the broth to a blender in batches. Once blended, return the soup to the pot and proceed with adding the seafood.
• Feel free to adjust the thickness of the bisque by adding more broth or cream depending on your preference.
• A non-alcoholic option for this recipe includes substituting the white wine with vegetable broth, which will still maintain the integrity of the dish’s flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• This bisque pairs wonderfully with crusty French bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich flavors.
• Serve with a light side salad to balance out the richness of the soup. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette works well.
• You can also top the bisque with a dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added luxury.

Tips:

• Make sure to cook the flour for at least 1-2 minutes to remove its raw taste and create a smooth base for the bisque.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, avoid blending the bisque and simply enjoy the soft chunks of seafood in every spoonful.
• To make the bisque more affordable, you can substitute lobster with more shrimp or crab meat.
• When reheating the bisque, do so gently over low heat to prevent the seafood from becoming tough or overcooked.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 960mg

FAQs:

1. Can I make this bisque ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the bisque up to a day in advance. However, it’s best to add the seafood right before serving to ensure it doesn’t overcook when reheating.

2. Can I use frozen seafood in this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp, crab, and lobster can be used if fresh seafood is not available. Just be sure to thaw and drain the seafood before adding it to the soup.

3. Is it possible to make this bisque dairy-free?

To make the bisque dairy-free, replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut milk or a plant-based cream in place of the heavy cream. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly, but the result will still be delicious.

4. What can I substitute for lobster?

If lobster is unavailable or too expensive, you can substitute it with additional shrimp or crab. Scallops are also a great alternative for adding sweetness and texture.

5. Can I freeze the bisque?

Yes, you can freeze this bisque. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Conclusion:

Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster is a luxurious and deeply flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. The richness of the cream, combined with the sweetness of the seafood, creates a balance that’s both comforting and sophisticated. By following the simple steps above, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish that can be made right in your kitchen. Enjoy the bisque with friends and family, and let the oceanic flavors sweep you away!

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