Lobster Or Crab Bisque
A rich, creamy seafood bisque featuring tender lobster or crab meat, with a flavorful tomato and onion base, perfect for elegant starters or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put butter, chopped onion, and parsley in a pan.
- Cook slowly until onion is yellow.
- Add lobster or crab meat.
- Cook and stir for 5 minutes.
- Stir in flour and tomato paste or paprika.
- Add chicken broth.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove parsley.
- Add light cream or milk.
- Heat gently, but do not boil.
- Serve with salt and cayenne pepper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using lobster stock instead of chicken broth. If you don't have fresh lobster or crab, canned seafood is a convenient substitute, though it may alter the taste slightly. To enhance the bisque's richness, you can add a splash of sherry or brandy. Make sure to cook the onion slowly to develop sweetness, which balances the seafood flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bisque hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a drizzle of cream for an elegant touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a delightful appetizer, consider serving it alongside Ozzel's Jambalaya or as part of a seafood-themed dinner. A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors exceptionally well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bisque can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to separate. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lobster Or Crab Bisque contains roughly 1586 calories, with 15g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 135g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (36% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen seafood for this bisque?
Yes, frozen lobster or crab meat works well in this recipe. Just ensure it is fully thawed and drained before use. This can save time and still provide great flavor. Remember, the key is to avoid overcooking the seafood during the preparation.
What can I substitute for light cream?
If you'd like a lighter version, you can substitute the light cream with whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Just be aware that these alternatives may slightly alter the bisque's texture and flavor.
How can I make this bisque spicier?
To add heat, you can incorporate cayenne pepper to taste or stir in some diced jalapeños while cooking. Another excellent method is to serve the bisque with a dash of hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to customize their spice level.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).