Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup celery, diced
• ½ cup carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups seafood stock (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• ½ pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• ½ pound lump crab meat
• ½ pound lobster meat, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Crusty bread or crackers for serving

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Construction (Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions):

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add onion, celery, and carrots, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Create the Base:
   • Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
   • Stir in tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
3. Thicken the Bisque:
   • In a separate pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
   • Cook for 1–2 minutes, then slowly whisk in seafood stock.
   • Transfer this mixture to the main pot and bring to a simmer.
4. Add Seafood:
   • Stir in shrimp, crab, and lobster meat.
   • Let cook for 5–7 minutes until shrimp turns pink and opaque.
5. Finish with Cream:
   • Lower heat and gently stir in heavy cream and lemon juice.
   • Simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread or crackers.

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Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
• Extra Creamy: Blend half of the bisque before adding seafood for a smoother texture.
• More Seafood Options: Try adding scallops or clams.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

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Tips:

• Use fresh seafood for the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain well.
• If the bisque is too thick, add more stock until the desired consistency is reached.
• For a smoother bisque, use an immersion blender before adding the seafood.
• Let the bisque rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 900mg (varies based on stock and seasoning)

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
• Pair with a side salad for a lighter meal.
• Enjoy with a glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
• Garnish with extra crab meat or a drizzle of truffle oil for an elegant touch.

Would you like any adjustments to fit dietary preferences?