Seafood Bisque with Scallops is a delightful dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. This creamy, rich soup has its roots in French cuisine, where it has been cherished for centuries as a luxurious treat often reserved for special occasions. The combination of fresh seafood, particularly succulent scallops, elevates this bisque to a level of indulgence that is hard to resist.

What I love most about Seafood Bisque with Scallops is its incredible depth of flavor and velvety texture. Each spoonful is a harmonious blend of the ocean’s bounty, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. Not only is it a comforting dish, but it also offers a touch of elegance that can impress guests at any dinner party. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen. Join me as we dive into this exquisite recipe that celebrates the beauty of seafood and the art of cooking!

Ingredients:

1 pound of fresh scallops, cleaned and patted dry
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1/4 cup brandy (optional)
4 cups seafood stock (or fish stock)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Preparing the Base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
If you’re using brandy, carefully pour it into the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and incorporate any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Building the Bisque

Next, add the tomato paste to the pot. Stir it in well, allowing it to cook for about 1 minute to deepen its flavor.
Pour in the seafood stock, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
After 20 minutes, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be cautious with the hot liquid!

Adding the Cream and Scallops

Once the bisque is blended, return it to the pot (if you used a regular blender) and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the bisque to simmer gently over low heat for another 10 minutes. This will help to thicken the soup and create a rich, creamy texture.
While the bisque is simmering, season it with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
In a separate skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cleaned scallops. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.

Assembling the Dish

Once the scallops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. You can keep them warm by covering them with foil.
To serve, ladle the bisque into bowls. Place a few scallops on top of each serving. This not only adds a beautiful presentation but also enhances the flavor of the bisque.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch.

Final Touches

Before serving, give the bisque a final taste check. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
Serve the seafood bisque hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and the delightful combination of the creamy bisque with the tender scallops!

Tips for Success

For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the seafood stock

Conclusion:

In summary, this Seafood Bisque with Scallops is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary repertoire. The rich, creamy texture combined with the delicate flavors of fresh seafood creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this bisque is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your bisque with a crusty baguette or a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the soup. You can also experiment with variations by adding different types of seafood, such as shrimp or crab, or even incorporating a splash of white wine for an extra depth of flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste. I encourage you to give this Seafood Bisque with Scallops a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turns out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media; I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!