Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
• 1/2 lb lump crabmeat (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Make the Roux:
   • Stir in the flour, mixing well to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown too much.
3. Add Wine and Stock:
   • Slowly pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.
   • Gradually add the seafood stock, continuing to stir, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings:
   • Stir in the tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Add Cream and Milk:
   • Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and milk. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes, being careful not to let the bisque boil.
6. Cook the Seafood:
   • Add the shrimp and crabmeat to the pot. Let them simmer in the bisque for about 5 minutes until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.
   • Season the bisque with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Blend (Optional):
   • If you prefer a smoother bisque, you can blend part or all of the soup using an immersion blender. If you like a chunkier texture, skip this step.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
   • Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, about 6 servings):

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: ~18g
• Fat: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugars: ~3g
• Sodium: ~800mg

This Crab and Shrimp Bisque is rich, creamy, and packed with seafood flavor. It’s a luxurious soup that makes a great appetizer or main dish!