Creamy Shrimp Bisque

Description

Creamy Shrimp Bisque is a luxurious yet easy seafood soup made with tender shrimp, aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, herbs, and a silky cream base. It has a rich, savory flavor with a subtle sweetness from the shrimp and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy dinner, special occasion, or elegant starter, this comforting bisque comes together beautifully in one pot.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1 small carrot, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or additional broth
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Melt butter with olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cayenne, and thyme. Cook for another minute to deepen the flavors.
3. Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2 minutes. Add the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes, until pink and cooked through. Remove about half of the shrimp and set aside for serving.
5. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, blend in batches using a regular blender.
6. Return the reserved shrimp to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Warm gently for 2–3 minutes without allowing the bisque to boil.
7. Season with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Serving

For an extra-smooth bisque, strain the blended soup before adding the cream. Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. A drizzle of olive oil or cream on top makes an elegant finishing touch.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat and avoid boiling to prevent the cream from separating.