Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups fish stock or clam juice (or chicken broth for a lighter option)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds depth)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat level)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 lb cooked crab meat, picked clean
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, chives, or a dollop of sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. - Build the Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, and heavy cream. Stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Blend for Smoothness
Using an immersion blender (or transferring portions to a regular blender), blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Return it to the pot if necessary. - Add the Seafood
Gently stir in the cooked crab, shrimp, and lobster meat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, just until the seafood is heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the seafood can become rubbery. - Season & Adjust
Remove the bay leaf and season the bisque with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add more cream or broth to adjust consistency. - Serve Hot
Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. Serve alongside crusty bread or oyster crackers for dipping.
Tips for Making Perfect Seafood Bisque
- Use Fresh Seafood : Opt for high-quality crab, shrimp, and lobster for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t Overcook the Seafood : Adding the seafood toward the end ensures it stays juicy and doesn’t toughen.
- Make It Ahead : Prepare the base broth up to a day in advance and reheat before adding the seafood for convenience.
- Experiment with Spices : Add a pinch of thyme, basil, or Old Bay seasoning for extra depth.
Conclusion
This Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster proves that luxurious flavors don’t have to come at the cost of complexity. With its rich tomato-cream base and tender seafood, it’s sure to become a standout dish in your repertoire. Whether enjoyed as part of a fancy dinner party or served during a quiet evening at home, it promises to satisfy your cravings and impress anyone who tries it.
Happy cooking, and don’t forget to snap a picture of your creation to share with friends and family. Bon appétit!