Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the sea with this creamy shrimp and crab bisque. Rich, velvety, and packed with fresh seafood, this bisque is a perfect appetizer or main course for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb crabmeat
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups seafood stock
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the seafood stock and white wine, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the shrimp, crabmeat, and Old Bay seasoning to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the seafood to cook through.
- Stir in the heavy cream and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve the bisque hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. The total preparation and cooking time is about 30-40 minutes.
Variations
- Spicy Bisque: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute seafood stock with vegetable stock and use mushrooms for a hearty flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill for added freshness.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain the cream’s consistency.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp and crabmeat?
Yes, frozen seafood works well; just ensure it’s properly thawed before cooking. - What if I don’t have seafood stock?
You can substitute with chicken stock or a homemade vegetable broth. - Can I make this bisque in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat just before serving. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. - How can I make the bisque thicker?
You can add more flour to the roux or blend a portion of the bisque and return it to the pot. - What type of white wine should I use?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works best. - Can I add other seafood?
Absolutely! Feel free to include scallops or lobster for a more decadent dish. - How do I clean and devein shrimp?
You can buy pre-cleaned shrimp or follow tutorials online to clean them yourself. - Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the bisque may be slightly less rich. - What can I serve with the bisque?
Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Shrimp & Crab Bisque is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the ocean to your table. With its smooth texture and savory flavors, it’s a luxurious treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting dinner, this bisque is sure to be a favorite!
PrintCreamy Shrimp & Crab Bisque
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
A rich and velvety bisque brimming with succulent shrimp and tender crabmeat, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb crabmeat
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups seafood stock
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a pot, melt butter and sauté onion until translucent.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add seafood stock and wine, stirring until smooth.
- Add shrimp, crabmeat, and Old Bay seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes until the seafood is cooked.
- Stir in the cream and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Adjust the seasoning to taste. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes