What are the essential ingredients for a creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque?

Key ingredients include fresh or cooked shrimp and crab meat, aromatic vegetables such as onion, celery, and carrot, seasonings like Old Bay or paprika, broth, heavy cream, and optional sherry for added depth. Fresh herbs complement the finish.

How long does it take to make this seafood bisque from start to finish?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with cooking time around 30 minutes, making the total approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make the bisque ahead of time and how should it be stored?

Yes, the bisque can be prepared a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop. Add the seafood just before serving to preserve its texture and tenderness.

Is it possible to freeze this bisque, and what's the best method for freezing?

Freezing is possible but cream may separate. Cool the bisque completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently and ideally add fresh seafood when serving for best texture.

Creamy Crab and Shrimp Bisque Recipe for Luxury

Name: Rich and Velvety Shrimp & Crab Bisque: A Luxurious Seafood Delight
Prep time: PT-485914H10M36S
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1/2 lb fresh or cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped; 1/2 lb fresh or cooked crab meat, shells removed; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium or 1/2 cup chopped onion; 2 celery stalks or 1/4 cup chopped celery; 1 large carrot or 1/4 cup chopped carrot; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup dry sherry (optional); 4 cups seafood or chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill for garnish; Optional: 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, saffron, or truffle oil for a luxurious touch

Description

🦐 Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Shrimp & Crab Bisque, an elegant choice for special occasions or cozy dinners.
🦀 Perfectly paired with crusty bread, this bisque’s rich, creamy texture will delight seafood lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 lb fresh or cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
1/2 lb fresh or cooked crab meat, shells removed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter or 1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium or 1/2 cup chopped onion
2 celery stalks or 1/4 cup chopped celery
1 large carrot or 1/4 cup chopped carrot
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup dry sherry (optional)
4 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or 1 teaspoon paprika
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill for garnish
Optional: 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, saffron, or truffle oil for a luxurious touch

Instructions

1. Finely chop the onion, celery, and carrot. Heat butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring well for 2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Slowly add sherry to deglaze the pot, followed by the broth, Old Bay seasoning, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Remove the bay leaf, then blend the soup until smooth using a blender or immersion blender and return it to the pot.
5. Stir in heavy cream, reducing heat to medium-low. Add shrimp and crab, cooking until shrimp is pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
6. For additional flavors, you may add tomato paste, cayenne pepper, or saffron at appropriate stages. Serve hot, garnished with herbs, and if desired, drizzle with truffle oil.

Notes

🔍 Use high-quality fresh or cooked frozen seafood for the best taste.
🌶️ Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
🍲 Blend part of the bisque before adding the seafood for a smoother texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration Time: None
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 20 grams
Saturated Fat: 12 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 5 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Protein: 22 grams
Cholesterol: 150 mg