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Creamy Crab and Shrimp Bisque

A rich and flavorful soup that combines tender crab and succulent shrimp in a smooth, creamy broth, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Soup
Cuisine: French, Seafood
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the bisque
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 cup diced potatoes (optional for thickness)
  • 4 cups seafood stock or broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups fresh crab meat, picked over for shells
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp, tails removed and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnishing

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and chopped celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. If using, stir in the diced potatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
  3. Pour in the seafood stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fully tender.
  4. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to desired smoothness, or carefully transfer to a blender and blend until smooth. Return it to the pot.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the crab meat and cooked shrimp. Let the bisque simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes to heat through.
  6. Add the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Ladle the bisque into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or chives, and enjoy.

Notes

To perfect your bisque: use fresh seafood and high-quality seafood stock for the best flavor, adjust thickness with heavy cream, and avoid overcooking seafood.