Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Ingredients:

For the Seafood Bisque:

1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 pound crab meat, preferably lump

2 tablespoons butter

1 onion, finely chopped

1 carrot, finely diced

2 stalks celery, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup tomato paste

3 cups seafood or fish broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For Thickening:

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

 

Directions:

Prepare the Seafood:

Cook the shrimp in a pot of boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are pink and opaque. Remove, cool, and chop roughly. Set aside.

Sauté Vegetables:

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Flavor Base:

Stir in tomato paste, paprika, and thyme. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Make the Bisque:

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually add seafood broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let simmer gently for 20 minutes.

Add Seafood and Cream:

Add the chopped shrimp and crab meat to the pot. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.

Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve:

Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes