Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

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Ingredients You’ll Need:

    • 1/2 lb fresh or canned lump crab meat: Provides a sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture.

    • 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a succulent, juicy bite to the bisque.

    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.

    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Forms the flavorful base of the bisque.

    • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped: Adds depth and a slight crunch to the soup.

    • 1 large carrot, finely chopped: Brings a natural sweetness and vibrant color.

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the bisque with a subtle, aromatic flavor.

    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the bisque, giving it a velvety texture.

    • 1/2 cup dry sherry: Adds a hint of sweetness and complexity to the broth.

    • 4 cups seafood stock or chicken broth: The base of the soup, enriched with seafood flavor.

    • 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, creamy texture that defines a bisque.

    • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Adds a classic seafood flavor with a touch of spice.

    • 1 bay leaf: Infuses the soup with subtle, earthy notes.

  • Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.

  • Instructions:

    Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

    1. In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

    2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.

    Step 2: Make the Roux

    1. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to cook and form a roux. This will help thicken the bisque later on.

    Step 3: Add the Liquids

    1. Pour in the dry sherry and stir, allowing it to cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly and bring out the flavor.

    2. Add the seafood stock (or chicken broth) and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

    Step 4: Add the Cream and Seasoning

    1. Stir in the heavy cream, Old Bay seasoning, and bay leaf. Let the bisque simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

    2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf and discard.

    Step 5: Add the Crab and Shrimp

    1. Add the shrimp and crab meat to the bisque, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the seafood.

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