Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup carrot, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 pound cooked crab meat, shells removed
• 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 2 tablespoons sherry (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add Flavorings: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, cayenne (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Thicken the Soup: Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring until well combined. Cook for another minute.
4. Add Broth: Gradually add broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Puree the Soup: Puree the soup until smooth using an immersion blender, or transfer to a standard blender in batches.
6. Incorporate Cream: Mix in the heavy cream and simmer for 10 more minutes, until slightly thickened.
7. Add Seafood: Add crab meat, shrimp, and sherry (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes or until seafood is heated through, keeping the heat low to avoid curdling the cream.
8. Season: Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
9. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs