Decadent Delight: Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the sea with our Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque recipe. This creamy and aromatic bisque is a celebration of succulent shrimp, tender crab meat, and a symphony of savory seasonings. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or craving a cozy night in, this indulgent dish is sure to impress. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this exquisite bisque recipe!

Ingredients:

• 4 Tbsp. Butter
• ⅓ cup Celery, chopped
• ⅓ cup Green onions, chopped
• 1 ½ cups Heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups Whole milk
• 3 Tbsp. Flour
• 1 Tbsp. Tomato paste
• 8 oz. Cooked shrimp, cut into pieces
• 8 oz. Crab meat
• 1 tsp. Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped celery and green onions to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Roux:

1. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden brown.
2. Gradually pour in the whole milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

3. Add Cream and Tomato Paste:

1. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring until well combined.
2. Add the tomato paste to the pot, stirring to incorporate it into the mixture.

4. Incorporate Seafood:

1. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and crab meat, stirring to distribute evenly.
2. Season the bisque with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning according to your preferences.

5. Simmer and Serve:

1. Reduce the heat to low and let the bisque simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Once heated through, ladle the hot bisque into serving bowls.
3. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or parsley, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Consistency: If you prefer a thicker bisque, you can add more flour to the roux. Alternatively, for a thinner consistency, adjust the amount of milk and cream used.
• Seafood Options: Feel free to customize the bisque by adding other seafood such as scallops, lobster, or even white fish for a variety of flavors and textures.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning to your taste preferences. For a spicier bisque, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp and crab meat instead of fresh? A: Yes, frozen shrimp and crab meat can be used as a convenient alternative. Thaw them thoroughly before adding them to the bisque.

Q: Can I make this bisque ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This bisque can be made ahead of time and reheated gently on the stove before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Is it possible to make this bisque dairy-free? A: Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives such as coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy whipping cream and whole milk for a dairy-free version of this bisque.

Q: What can I serve with this seafood bisque? A: This bisque pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it as an appetizer or starter course for a special occasion dinner.

Keto Version:

• Replace Flour: Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for all-purpose flour to make the roux keto-friendly.
• Use Heavy Cream: Skip the whole milk and use additional heavy whipping cream to keep the bisque low-carb.
• Butter Substitute: Use ghee or avocado oil instead of butter for a keto-friendly alternative.

Low Carb Version:

• Thicken with Xanthan Gum: Use xanthan gum as a thickening agent instead of flour to keep the bisque low in carbs.
• Reduce Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk to reduce the carb content.
• Avoid Sweeteners: Omit the tomato paste or choose a sugar-free version to minimize carbs.

Elevate your dining experience with the rich and velvety goodness of Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or served as an elegant appetizer at a dinner party, this sumptuous bisque is sure to leave a lasting impression. With its decadent blend of seafood, creamy texture, and aromatic seasonings, this bisque is a true culinary delight. So, treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of luxury with this exquisite Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque recipe!