This shrimp bisque is a creamy and rich soup, packed with the delightful flavor of shrimp. It’s smooth and oh-so-satisfying, perfect for cozy evenings!
I love how it makes the kitchen smell amazing while it cooks. Plus, it feels fancy, but is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. Who doesn’t enjoy a warm bowl of comfort? 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp adds the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them beforehand. For a twist, consider using crabmeat for a different seafood flavor.
Onion, Carrot, Celery: This trio makes a great base. If you’re out of any, leeks can replace onions, or you could use bell peppers instead. But do include some aromatics for flavor!
Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream: You can switch to coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or use whole milk for a lighter option. Just know that it may not be as creamy, but it’ll still be tasty!
Spices: The paprika and cayenne pepper give a lovely kick. You can adjust these to your liking or even use smoked paprika for added depth. If you want a milder flavor, just skip the cayenne.
How Can I Make a Rich and Flavorful Shrimp Stock?
Making shrimp stock is key to a delicious bisque. It’s super easy and enhances the overall flavor. Start by saving shrimp shells from your fresh shrimp. Here’s how:
- Simmer shells in water for about 20 minutes. This pulls out all the shrimp flavor.
- Strain the liquid to remove the shells. This is your base for the bisque.
- If you’re short on time, using ready-made seafood stock can be a good shortcut too!
By taking a little extra time to make your stock, you’ll deepen the flavor of your bisque significantly. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
How to Make Shrimp Bisque
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (reserve shells)
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Creaminess:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Paprika, for garnish
- Bread slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp bisque takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook! You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking the soup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Shrimp Stock:
Start by putting the shrimp shells in a large pot with 4 cups of water. Turn the heat up high and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes. When done, strain the stock to remove the shells, and set the fragrant stock aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, then stir occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies are tender.
3. Add the Aromatics:
Now, add the minced garlic and cook for an extra minute until it smells amazing! Time to boost the flavor.
4. Stir in the Flavor Boosters:
Mix in the tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir for 2 minutes to let those flavors develop and mingle.
5. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the veggie mixture and keep stirring for 2-3 minutes. This will help thicken your bisque later on.
6. Combine with the Stock:
Gradually whisk in the shrimp stock, ensuring no lumps form. If you’re using white wine, add it in now. Keep stirring and bring the mixture to a light simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes until it thickens a bit.
7. Add the Shrimp:
Toss in the peeled shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove half of the shrimp and set them aside for adding back at the end.
8. Blend the Bisque:
Grab your immersion blender and puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (in batches) and blend until smooth.
9. Final Touches:
If needed, return the bisque to the pot and stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Gently heat, but keep it from boiling. Now, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
10. Serve:
Pour the bisque into bowls, topping each with the reserved shrimp and a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or parsley along with a touch of paprika. Serve with toasted bread slices for a delightful finish!
Enjoy your rich and creamy shrimp bisque—it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your tastebuds!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before adding them to the bisque. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
How Can I Make this Bisque Gluten-Free?
To make the shrimp bisque gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the soup to help thicken it.
Can I Prepare the Bisque in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bisque in advance! Cook it all the way through, then let it cool down and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a little more cream if needed.
What Should I Serve with Shrimp Bisque?
This bisque pairs wonderfully with toasted bread slices or a crispy baguette for dipping. A fresh side salad or light greens would also complement the rich flavors of the bisque nicely!