Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
A rich and creamy bisque made with tender shrimp, lump crab meat, heavy cream, tomato paste, and Old Bay seasoning. Elegant yet simple, this seafood bisque is perfect for a cozy, flavorful meal any day of the week.
4 Servings
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup celery finely chopped
- ⅓ cup green onions finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk warmed
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 8 ounces cooked shrimp chopped
- 8 ounces crab meat lump or claw
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped celery and green onions, and sauté for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
Incorporate the Flour:
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 minute to allow the flour to cook and to form a light roux.
Add the Dairy and Tomato Paste:
- Slowly pour in the warmed whole milk while whisking continuously to eliminate lumps and create a smooth base. Once fully incorporated, add the heavy cream, tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue to whisk until all ingredients are well combined.
Simmer the Bisque:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and allow the bisque to cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to the desired consistency.
Incorporate the Seafood:
- Gently fold in the chopped shrimp and crab meat. Continue to cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the seafood is thoroughly heated but not overcooked.
Serve:
- Taste the bisque and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
To prepare this bisque as a gluten-free dish:
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for thickening.
- Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the crab meat, shrimp, tomato paste, and Old Bay seasoning, are labeled certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination may occur during processing.