Description

This rich and creamy bisque brings together the delicate flavors of fresh crab and shrimp, complemented by aromatic vegetables and a splash of dry sherry for a comforting and indulgent dish.

Ingredients

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 celery stalk, finely chopped

1 carrot, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups seafood stock (or fish stock)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup dry sherry or white wine

8 oz cooked crab meat, picked over for shells

8 oz cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon wedges, for garnish

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Instructions

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot, cooking until the vegetables soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the seafood stock, blending well to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
Add the heavy cream, sherry, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Stir in the crab meat and shrimp, heating for 3-4 minutes, making sure not to overcook the seafood.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges for garnish.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

For a vegetarian version, replace the crab and shrimp with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and corn.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, and reheat gently over low heat.

If freezing, omit the cream during cooking and add it after reheating to preserve texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 300
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 80mg