Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
A luxurious, velvety soup infused with tender shrimp, sweet crab, aromatic vegetables, and creamy richness.
Introduction
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And while you’re here, enjoy this indulgent Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant, restaurant-quality bowl of comfort. Smooth, creamy, and packed with coastal flavors, this bisque is perfect for special gatherings or cozy nights when you want something warm, rich, and impressive.
Ingredients & Quantities
Base & Aromatics
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup onion, finely chopped
¼ cup celery, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Seafood
½ pound (225 g) shrimp, peeled & deveined, chopped
½ pound (225 g) lump crab meat
1 bay leaf
Liquids & Thickener
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
¼ cup dry white wine (optional but recommended)
Seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in a heavy pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Build the Base
Stir in tomato paste and flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Liquids
Slowly whisk in seafood stock, followed by milk and white wine (if using). Add bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Seasonings
Mix in paprika, Old Bay, cayenne (optional), salt, and black pepper. Let simmer 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.
5. Cook the Seafood
Add chopped shrimp and crab meat. Simmer 5–7 minutes until shrimp turn pink and the bisque thickens.
6. Finish With Cream
Stir in heavy cream and allow it to gently warm through—do not boil. Adjust seasoning.
7. Serve
Remove bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Seafood bisque originated in France, where classic bisques were made by puréeing crustacean shells to extract every bit of flavor. Over time, the dish traveled globally and evolved into a luxurious seafood soup cherished in coastal regions of Europe and North America.
In American coastal towns—especially in New England and the Gulf region—bisques symbolize comfort, celebration, and appreciation of the ocean’s bounty. Today, a seafood bisque is seen as a special-occasion meal, offering elegance and nostalgia in every spoonful.
Description
This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is creamy, smooth, and rich without being overly heavy. Sweet crab meat complements tender shrimp, while aromatic vegetables and paprika add warmth and depth. The broth is silky, slightly buttery, lightly spiced, and irresistibly savory.
Optional Additions
Add lobster meat for an ultra-luxurious version.
Stir in corn kernels for sweetness and texture.
Sprinkle Parmesan on top for a cheesy finish.
Add a dash of cognac or brandy for French-style richness.
Blend half the soup for an extra velvety bisque.
Tips for Success
Do not boil after adding cream — it can separate.
Use seafood stock for the most flavorful result.
Fresh crab is ideal, but quality canned crab works too.
Chop shrimp small so each spoonful has pieces of seafood.
Simmer slowly, allowing flavors to develop fully.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
(Based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~330
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 21 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 620 mg
Conclusion
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a comforting yet elegant dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your bowl. Creamy, aromatic, and full of tender seafood, it’s the perfect recipe when you want to treat yourself or impress your guests.
Recommendation
Serve this bisque with garlic bread, crusty baguette, or a simple green salad. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Although rich, this bisque can be enjoyed as part of a balanced lifestyle. Savor it mindfully, appreciate the quality of the seafood, and pair it with lighter sides to create a nourishing, satisfying meal that feels luxurious without excess.