Description
This creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a rich, flavorful dish packed with tender crab and shrimp, simmered in a velvety broth with aromatic herbs and a touch of sherry. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb crab meat (fresh or imitation)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups seafood stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional)
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
-
Sauté the aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. -
Create the roux:
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to form a thick paste and cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the seafood stock (or chicken broth), making sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer. -
Simmer the bisque:
Once the mixture is smooth, add the Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Add seafood and cream:
Stir in the crab meat and shrimp, then add the heavy cream and dry sherry (if using). Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the bisque has thickened to your desired consistency. -
Finish and serve:
Taste the bisque and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the bisque into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- If you prefer a smoother bisque, you can use an immersion blender to purée the soup before adding the seafood.
- For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
- This bisque can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 160mg