Shrimp bisque is a luxurious and creamy soup that celebrates the delicate flavor of shrimp, enhanced with aromatics, herbs, and a touch of cream.

Originating from French cuisine, bisque is known for its smooth texture and rich taste, making it a perfect starter for special occasions or a comforting meal on a chilly day.

This recipe will guide you through creating a velvety shrimp bisque that showcases the essence of seafood and the elegance of French culinary tradition.

Ingredients

For making Shrimp Bisque, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, shells reserved
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crusty bread or croutons, for serving (optional)

How to Make Shrimp Bisque

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Stock

Make Shrimp Stock: In a large pot, combine the shrimp shells with 4 cups of seafood or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes to extract flavor from the shells. Strain the stock, discarding the shells, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Melt Butter: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.

Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Make the Bisque Base

Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.

Deglaze: Gradually pour in the dry white wine (if using), stirring constantly to incorporate it into the mixture. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Add Shrimp Stock: Gradually add the strained shrimp stock to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Shrimp

Cook Shrimp: While the bisque base is simmering, prepare the shrimp. Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little butter or oil, then add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

Chop Shrimp: Reserve a few whole shrimp for garnish if desired. Chop the remaining cooked shrimp into smaller pieces.

Step 5: Finish the Bisque

Blend the Bisque: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender or working in batches with a regular blender, blend the bisque until smooth and creamy.

Add Cream and Seasoning: Return the bisque to low heat. Stir in the heavy cream, bay leaf, dried thyme, and chopped cooked shrimp. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Serve the Shrimp Bisque

Remove Bay Leaf: Discard the bay leaf from the bisque.

Serve: Ladle the hot shrimp bisque into bowls. Garnish each serving with a few whole shrimp (if reserved), chopped fresh parsley, and optionally serve with crusty bread or croutons on the side.

Chef’s Note

Consistency: If the bisque is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more broth or cream. Adjust the consistency according to your preference.

Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, you can omit it or substitute with additional broth.

Garnish Variations: Besides parsley, you can garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and presentation.

Nutrition Value

The nutritional values for Shrimp Bisque can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on a 6-serving recipe):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 25-30g
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugars: 5-6g
• Cholesterol: 200-250mg
• Sodium: 800-1000mg
• Vitamin A: 80-100% DV
• Vitamin C: 15-20% DV
• Calcium: 10-15% DV
• Iron: 10-15% DV

Conclusion

Shrimp bisque is a decadent soup that highlights the delicate flavor of shrimp in a creamy and flavorful broth.

This recipe allows you to recreate the elegance of French cuisine at home, providing a comforting and satisfying dish for any occasion.

Serve shrimp bisque as an appetizer or a main course, accompanied by crusty bread or croutons for dipping.

Embrace the rich flavors and creamy texture of shrimp bisque, and enjoy the culinary journey it brings. Bon appétit!

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