– 1 pound fresh crab meat
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups seafood stock (or vegetable stock)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
– 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 bay leaf
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Follow these simple steps to create a delectable Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque:
1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté until they become soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste, stirring until combined, and cook for another minute.
4. Add Stock and Seasoning: Pour in the seafood stock. Add the Old Bay seasoning, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Bring to a Simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Incorporate Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for approximately 5 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.
7. Add Crab: Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much.
8. Stir in Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until fully combined. Continue to cook on low for another 5 minutes to allow the bisque to thicken slightly.
9. Remove Bay Leaf: Take out the bay leaf and discard it.
10. Garnish and Serve: Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately in bowls, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zest.