Ingredients
Scale
For the Bisque Base:
- 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 additional seafood stock for non-alcoholic versions)
For the Seafood:
- 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, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Paprika for sprinkling
- Crusty bread or oyster crackers
Instructions
1. Preparing the Bisque Base
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and grated carrot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the seafood stock and white wine (or additional stock), ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
2. Cooking the Seafood
- Season the Bisque: Stir in smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add the Crab: Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break the delicate lumps.
3. Finishing the Bisque
- Add the Cream: Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Avoid boiling, as it may cause the cream to curdle.
- Adjust Consistency: If the bisque is too thick, thin it with additional seafood stock, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Serving
- Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes