Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped carrot
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 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, picked over for shells
• 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons sherry (optional)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to enhance the flavors.
3. Incorporate the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and mix until fully incorporated. Cook for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the broth while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Puree the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can use a standard blender, working in batches, then return the soup to the pot.
6. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer the bisque for another 10 minutes, until it begins to thicken slightly.
7. Add the Seafood: Add the cooked crab meat and shrimp to the bisque. If using sherry, add it now. Cook for 5 minutes or until the seafood is heated through, maintaining a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from curdling.
8. Season to Taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
9. Serve: Ladle the bisque into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately.

Enjoy this rich and creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque to warm up chilly days or to elevate any ordinary day into something special!