🦀🍤 Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Description
This Crab and Shrimp Bisque is a silky, elegant seafood soup bursting with flavor. Tender shrimp and delicate crabmeat simmer in a creamy, buttery broth infused with herbs, aromatics, and a touch of sherry for depth. Each spoonful is smooth, savory, and perfectly balanced — a true indulgence for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup half-and-half (or milk, for a lighter version)
- ½ pound (225 g) shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- ½ pound (225 g) lump crab meat
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- ¼ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry or white wine (optional but enhances flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional Additions
- Vegetable Boost: Add a few finely diced carrots or roasted red peppers for sweetness and color.
- Extra Seafood: Stir in scallops, lobster chunks, or clams for a deluxe version.
- Garnish Ideas: A drizzle of cream, sprinkle of paprika, or buttered croutons on top.
- Flavor Enhancers: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for depth.
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant, but not browned.
2. Make the Roux
- Add butter to the pot. Once melted, stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in seafood stock, a little at a time, until smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Add Cream and Seasoning
- Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cayenne, Old Bay, salt, and black pepper.
- Add cream, half-and-half, and sherry (if using). Stir gently and bring just to a simmer — do not boil.
4. Add the Seafood
- Add shrimp and crab meat to the bisque.
- Simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Add lemon juice and taste for seasoning — adjust salt or spice as needed.
5. Blend (Optional)
- For an ultra-smooth bisque, use an immersion blender to puree part (or all) of the soup before adding the seafood.
- Or leave it slightly chunky for a rustic, hearty texture.
6. Serve
- Ladle into bowls, top with fresh parsley, a swirl of cream, or a sprinkle of paprika.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh seafood if possible — it elevates the flavor and texture.
- Don’t boil after adding cream — it can curdle.
- Add crab meat last to keep its delicate texture intact.
- Deglaze with sherry or wine for rich restaurant-style depth.
- Make ahead: Flavors develop beautifully if made a few hours early.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~360 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Total Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
| Cholesterol | 160 mg |
(Approximate values; vary by ingredients and portion size.)
Conclusion
The Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is the definition of coastal elegance — smooth, creamy, and packed with the natural sweetness of fresh seafood. It’s a dish that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly easy to make at home. Perfect for special dinners, date nights, or cozy weekends when you crave something rich and satisfying.
Recommendation
- Serve with: Warm baguette slices, garlic toast, or a light salad.
- Pair with: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or a crisp rosé.
- Storage: Keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat — do not boil.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Though rich and creamy, this bisque can also be a mindful indulgence:
- Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or cashew cream for a lighter touch.
- Use olive oil instead of butter to reduce saturated fats.
- Add more vegetables or pureed cauliflower for extra nutrients and body.