Sherry Bisque
A rich and hearty sherry bisque featuring tender split peas, savory ham hock, and a splash of dry sherry, perfect for comforting gatherings and elegant starters.
Ingredients
- 6 c. beef stock ⓘ
- 3/4 c. split peas ⓘ
- 1 small ham hock ⓘ
- 1 small bay leaf ⓘ
- 1/4 c. ground salt pork
- 3/4 c. diced onions ⓘ
- 1/2 c. diced celery ⓘ
- 2 1/2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1 1/4 c. heated chicken stock
- 1 c. tomato puree ⓘ
- 1/4 c. dry sherry ⓘ
- 1/4 c. (1/2 stick) butter ⓘ
- salt and freshly ground pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine 4 cups beef stock, split peas, ham hock, and bay leaf in a heavy medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer until the ingredients are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika. If you don't have dry sherry, a splash of white wine or even apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute. Ensure to soak the split peas for a few hours beforehand to reduce cooking time and enhance their texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sherry Bisque hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Arroz Con Higaditos De Pollo for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or stock to maintain the bisque's creamy consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just let it cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sherry Bisque contains roughly 1122 calories, with 17g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (144% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1521mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
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 vegetable stock instead of beef stock?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable stock for beef stock to make a vegetarian version. The flavor will be different but still delicious. You may want to enhance the umami by adding a bit of soy sauce or miso paste.
How can I thicken the bisque if it's too thin?
If your bisque is thinner than desired, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered to reduce some of the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the bisque, cooking until it thickens.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bisque actually improves in flavor after a day in the fridge. Prepare it in advance, let it cool, and store it. Just reheat gently before serving to enjoy its rich flavors.
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).