Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Why You’ll Love This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The bisque is velvety smooth thanks to the perfect blend of cream, butter, and seafood stock.
• Flavorful Seafood: The combination of sweet crab meat and tender shrimp adds depth to every spoonful.
• Elegant Presentation: This bisque looks stunning, making it ideal for dinner parties or romantic meals.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices or swap the seafood to your preference.
• Ultimate Comfort: It’s a warm, hearty soup that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups seafood stock or fish broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup dry white cooking wine or seafood stock
• 1 cup lump crab meat
• 1 cup medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Paprika for sprinkling
• Crusty bread or oyster crackers

Directions

1. Prepare the Bisque Base: In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrot, sautéing until softened.
2. Make the Roux: Stir in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to create a roux.
3. Add the Liquid: Gradually whisk in seafood stock and wine. Simmer gently to combine.
4. Season the Bisque: Stir in smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook the Seafood: Add shrimp and cook until pink, then add crab and cook for an additional minute.
6. Finish the Bisque: Stir in heavy cream and adjust the consistency by adding more stock if needed.
7. Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, paprika, and serve with crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Lobster Bisque: Substitute lobster for crab and shrimp for a more decadent version.
• Coconut Bisque: Swap out heavy cream for coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
• Spicy Cajun Bisque: Add Cajun spices and sausage for a bold, Southern twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable stock and skip the seafood for a non-seafood bisque.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of stock to adjust the consistency if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood works fine but may alter the texture slightly.

2. What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?

You can substitute with a combination of paprika, salt, and other seafood seasonings.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the base ahead of time and add seafood and cream just before serving.

4. Can I make it spicier?

Yes, you can adjust the cayenne pepper to taste for more heat.

5. How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes.

6. Can I blend the bisque for a smoother texture?

Yes, you can blend the bisque base before adding the seafood for a creamy texture.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

8. Can I freeze this bisque?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the base without the seafood, then add seafood when reheating.

9. What do you serve with bisque?

Crusty bread or crackers complement the bisque perfectly.

10. Can I use other types of seafood?

Yes, you can swap crab and shrimp for lobster, scallops, or clams for variety.

Conclusion

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a rich and indulgent soup that’s perfect for both special occasions and cozy dinners. The creamy texture and fresh seafood flavors make this dish a standout. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it out and savor every luxurious spoonful!

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