Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque for Cozy Nights

Indulge in this rich and creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque, perfect for cozy nights and festive gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Soups

Cuisine: Seafood

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Provides a flavorful foundation; substitute with butter for a richer taste.
1 piece Onion Adds sweetness and depth; use shallots for a milder flavor.
1 stalk Celery Contributes freshness and crunch; can be replaced with fennel for a unique twist.
1 piece Carrot Adds sweetness and vibrant color; substitute with parsnip if desired.
3 cloves Garlic Enhances overall flavor; fresh garlic is preferred over powdered.
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Introduces a rich, tangy element; use canned diced tomatoes as an alternative.
1 teaspoon Paprika Adds warmth and smokiness; smoked paprika can boost depth of flavor.
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Offers optional heat; omit for milder taste or use white pepper for subtle spice.
to taste Salt and Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; opt for sea salt and freshly cracked pepper.
2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Thickens the bisque for luxurious texture; gluten-free flour can be a good substitute.
4 cups Seafood or Chicken Broth Forms the soup base; switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

For the Creaminess

1 cup Heavy Cream Adds rich creaminess; replace with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter take.

For the Seafood

1 cup Cooked Crab Meat The star of this bisque, delivering a fresh ocean flavor; switch with lobster or scallops for variation.
1 cup Cooked Shrimp Provides texture and additional protein; can be substituted with lobster or other seafood.

For the Finishing Touch

1/4 cup Sherry Enhances the bisque’s flavor complexity; dry white wine can be a suitable alternative.
to taste Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Chives) Add a vibrant finish; dill or tarragon can also work well as substitutes.

Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Add 1 finely chopped onion, 1 diced celery stalk, and 1 diced carrot to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional minute.
Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the pot, stirring it in for about 2 minutes.
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of seafood or chicken broth, stirring to blend thoroughly.
Reduce the heat and let the bisque simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and let the bisque simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Gently fold in 1 cup of cooked crab meat and 1 cup of cooked shrimp, cooking for about 5 minutes.
Taste your bisque and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.
Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or chives.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 16gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Serve hot alongside crusty bread for a comforting meal that showcases the delicious essence of the sea in every bowl.

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