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Crab Bisque

Crab Bisque
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Creamy Crab Bisque is the ultimate comfort soup, combining the delicate sweetness of fresh crab meat with aromatic herbs, cream, and a touch of spice. This velvety seafood bisque offers rich flavors and cozy warmth, making it perfect as a starter or a satisfying main course. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers an elegant yet approachable dish that soothes the soul on chilly days or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood and Dairy

  • 1 lb fresh lump crab meat
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Fats

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Aromatics & Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

Flavor Enhancers

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

Liquids & Herbs

  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 4 cups seafood stock or broth
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Seasoning

  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until tender and fragrant, about 7-8 minutes, creating a flavorful foundation for the bisque.
  2. Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes to deepen the flavors and slightly caramelize the tomato base.
  3. Pour in Liquids and Herbs: Deglaze the pot with dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Add seafood stock, thyme, and bay leaf, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Simmer and Blend: Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove the herbs, then use an immersion blender to carefully puree the soup until smooth and silky, leaving a bit of texture.
  5. Add Crab and Cream: Gently fold in fresh crab meat and heavy cream. Warm through on low heat, avoiding boiling, until heated and creamy, about 5 minutes.
  6. Finish with Lemon and Seasoning: Stir in fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh or high-quality lump crab meat for authentic sweetness and flavor.
  • Do not overblend the soup; leave a little texture to maintain a pleasant mouthfeel.
  • Simmer gently after adding cream to avoid curdling and preserve smoothness.
  • To intensify flavor, toast the tomato paste and spices before adding liquids.
  • Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness beautifully.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crab Bisque, seafood soup, creamy crab soup, bisque recipe, comfort food, gluten free soup, elegant appetizer

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/crab-bisque/