Creamy Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster

Introduction

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this creamy seafood bisque, brimming with fresh shrimp, crab, and lobster. This classic bisque offers a velvety base, seasoned with a touch of Old Bay and paprika for a subtle kick that elevates the natural sweetness of the seafood. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special gathering, this dish can be served with crusty bread for an impressive yet comforting meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this delicious bisque in your own kitchen.

Overview of the Recipe

This seafood bisque combines tender chunks of shrimp, crab, and lobster in a creamy, flavorful broth. The recipe incorporates rich ingredients such as butter, garlic, onions, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning, creating a balanced dish with robust seafood flavors. A homemade roux thickens the soup, and heavy cream brings a smooth texture, making this bisque both comforting and indulgent.

History and Origin

The word “bisque” originated in France, and traditional bisque recipes date back centuries. Originally, bisques were a method of preserving seafood and were often based on crustaceans like lobster or shrimp, pureed into a smooth, creamy soup. Today, bisques have evolved to include a variety of seafood and even vegetables. This particular recipe draws inspiration from the French culinary tradition while adapting flavors to appeal to diverse tastes.

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb lump crab meat
• 1/2 lb lobster meat, chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring frequently. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Step 2: Create the Roux

1. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to form a paste with the butter and aromatics.
2. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, making sure the flour fully integrates and loses its raw taste.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasoning

1. Gradually pour in the seafood or chicken broth, stirring as you add it to avoid lumps.
2. Continue stirring as the broth and roux thicken.
3. Add the heavy cream, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to blend and develop its flavors for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate the Seafood

1. Gently add the shrimp, crab meat, and chopped lobster to the pot.
2. Stir well, allowing the seafood to cook in the bisque for about 5-7 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink, and the crab and lobster should heat through without becoming rubbery.

Step 5: Serve the Bisque

1. Ladle the bisque into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this seafood bisque with warm crusty bread or a baguette to soak up the creamy broth. A side salad with a light, citrus-based vinaigrette pairs well, cutting through the richness of the bisque.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing this bisque with a chilled glass of sparkling water with a hint of lemon can provide a refreshing contrast to its creamy texture. Alternatively, a light, non-alcoholic sparkling juice like apple or pear complements the seafood without overpowering the flavors.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Vegetable-Enhanced Bisque: Add diced celery and carrots along with the onions for a more robust bisque base.
2. Spicy Twist: For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the Old Bay seasoning.
3. Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream to reduce the fat content.
4. Mixed Seafood Option: Include other seafood like scallops or white fish, adjusting cooking time as necessary.

Health Benefits Notes

Seafood is known for being a rich source of protein and essential nutrients. Shrimp, crab, and lobster provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They are also low in saturated fat, making them a lean choice for protein. While heavy cream is higher in fat, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Opting for lower-fat dairy options in the bisque can create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze leftover bisque? A: Yes, you can freeze the bisque, but keep in mind that cream-based soups may separate upon thawing. Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to recombine the ingredients.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp, crab, or lobster? A: Yes, pre-cooked seafood works well in this recipe. Simply add it towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Q: How can I thicken the bisque if it’s too thin? A: If the bisque is too thin, you can make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 1 tbsp of cold water and stirring it into the soup. Cook until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q: Can I make this bisque dairy-free? A: Absolutely! Substitute dairy-free butter and coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

This Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster is a truly indulgent meal that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. The balance of creamy broth and delicate seafood flavors makes this bisque a standout. With easy variations and serving suggestions, you can tailor this dish to suit any occasion.

Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This luxurious seafood bisque combines tender shrimp, crab, and lobster in a creamy, well-seasoned broth. Enhanced with aromatic vegetables, Old Bay seasoning, and a smooth roux, this dish is both comforting and elegant, ideal for cozy nights in or entertaining guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb lump crab meat
• 1/2 lb lobster meat, chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

• Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (3-4 minutes).
• Make the Roux: Stir in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until well-combined with the butter mixture.
• Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the broth, stirring to prevent lumps, followed by the heavy cream. Season with Old Bay, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Add Seafood: Add the shrimp, crab, and lobster meat, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are pink.
• Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Notes

• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Avoid overcooking seafood to prevent toughness.
• Use fresh or canned seafood for convenience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, French-inspired

Nutrition

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 180mg