Name: Hearty Shrimp Bisque
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 2 sticks celery, chopped; 1 medium carrot, chopped; 1/4 cup green onion, chopped (plus more for garnish); 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons flour; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 5-6 cups homemade shrimp stock; 2 lb raw jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped; 4 slices rustic or French bread, cubed and toasted; Salt and pepper to taste

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Hearty Shrimp Bisque

Hearty Shrimp Bisque is a delightful seafood soup that brings a warm, comforting embrace in every spoonful. The creamy texture, infused with the rich flavors of succulent shrimp and aromatic vegetables, creates a culinary experience that is both satisfying and indulgent. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for anyone looking to impress family and friends or simply treat themselves to a deliciously satisfying meal. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, this bisque is a feast for the senses and will leave you feeling cozy on even the coldest days. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide for making your very own Hearty Shrimp Bisque.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love this recipe! First and foremost, Hearty Shrimp Bisque is incredibly easy to prepare, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. The ingredients can be found in most grocery stores, and the preparation time is minimal. Whether you’re cooking for a small gathering or a family dinner, this bisque is sure to please everyone at the table. Additionally, it’s a traditional dish that feels luxurious yet can be made in under an hour. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

For Hearty Shrimp Bisque

To create your Hearty Shrimp Bisque, you will need the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter, adding a silky richness
2 sticks celery, chopped, for a crunchy texture
1 medium carrot, chopped, bringing a touch of sweetness
1/4 cup green onion, chopped, offering a fresh bite (plus more for garnish)
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped, infusing the dish with flavor
1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons of flour, for a thick and creamy base
1 cup heavy whipping cream, enriching the bisque
5-6 cups homemade shrimp stock, packed with flavor
2 lb raw jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped, the star of the dish
4 slices rustic or French bread, cubed and toasted, for that perfect crunch
Salt and pepper to taste, to bring all flavors together

Step-by-Step Directions

To kick off your Hearty Shrimp Bisque, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling and fragrant, add in your chopped celery, carrot, and green onion. Sauté these colorful vegetables for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their aromas.

Next, add the finely chopped garlic and stir for just 1 minute, preventing it from burning. After that, mix in the flour, stirring for another minute to create a roux that will thicken your bisque. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream while whisking to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps.

Now, it’s time to pour in the homemade shrimp stock. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Once thickened, toss in the chopped shrimp and bring the bisque to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to simmer and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and tender. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve your Hearty Shrimp Bisque hot, garnished with toasted croutons and extra chopped green onion for that finishing touch.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Hearty Shrimp Bisque, consider a few chef’s secrets! For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice right before serving. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also enhance the bisque’s brightness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, try including a dash of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving the bisque with a side salad or incorporating fresh ingredients like spinach or kale during the cooking process. If you’re looking for a creamy touch, a scoop of sour cream on top can provide a wonderful contrast to the soup.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving your Hearty Shrimp Bisque, presentation can elevate the dining experience. Serve the bisque in large, rustic bowls topped with croutons and a sprinkle of fresh green onion. For an extra touch, drizzle a little olive oil on top just before serving.

As for pairings, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the bisque beautifully. Crusty French bread or garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for dipping. If you’re looking for a drink pairing, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or iced tea can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Nutritional Information

Hearty Shrimp Bisque is not only delicious but also provides a nutritious meal option. Each serving is packed with protein from the shrimp while the vegetables contribute fiber and essential vitamins. On average, a bowl of bisque contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. This recipe is rich in healthy fats from the butter and heavy cream, so it is perfect for a cozy occasion or an indulgent treat.

Storing Tips & Variations for Hearty Shrimp Bisque

If you have leftovers, storing your Hearty Shrimp Bisque is easy! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the texture.

For variations, consider swapping out the shrimp for scallops or crab meat for a delightful seafood twist. You can also experiment with different vegetables, like adding sweet corn or bell peppers. For those looking to reduce calories, substituting half of the heavy whipping cream with low-fat milk or incorporating plant-based cream can make this recipe lighter.

Conclusion for Hearty Shrimp Bisque

Your culinary journey to creating Hearty Shrimp Bisque is only a recipe away. The heartwarming combination of flavors and textures makes this dish an instant favorite, perfect for warming up your home and impressing your loved ones. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking this delightful bisque today!

FAQs

What can I use instead of shrimp stock?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken stock as an alternative, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Can I make the bisque ahead of time?

Absolutely! The bisque can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to reheat gently when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Hearty Shrimp Bisque?

Yes, this bisque freezes well! Just ensure that it has completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Can I use cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, if you have pre-cooked shrimp, simply add them at the end of cooking to heat through, ensuring you don’t overcook them.

Hearty Shrimp Bisque

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Seafood

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Description

A delightful seafood soup that combines creamy texture with the rich flavors of shrimp and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for impressing family and friends.