Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and crab meat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups seafood stock (or fish stock)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to caramelize slightly.
- If you’re using white wine, pour it into the pot now. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze, incorporating all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
- Next, pour in the seafood stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- After the base has simmered, gently stir in the mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and crab meat). Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the scallops are opaque.
- Once cooked, season the bisque with salt and pepper to taste.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring to create a rich and creamy texture. Let the bisque simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- For a smoother bisque, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Taste one last time and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle the bisque into warm bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Customize the seafood based on availability or personal preference; lobster, mussels, or fish can be great additions.
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or sherry along with the white wine.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes