Name: Creamy Shrimp Bisque
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 32 ounces large shrimp, shell and tail on; 2 cups water; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 Vidalia onion, diced; 1 fennel bulb, sliced thin; 1 garlic clove, crushed; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 cups seafood stock; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 3 cups seafood stock; 1 (14-ounce) can fire roasted diced tomatoes; 1¼ cups heavy cream; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rich and creamy shrimp bisque is a comforting seafood soup that highlights the delicate flavors of juicy shrimp in every bite. With a smooth, velvety texture and an infusion of aromatic herbs and spices, it’s the perfect dish for a cozy evening. The combination of fresh shrimp, fennel, and a touch of cayenne gives the bisque just the right amount of flavor without being overwhelming. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just for a cozy night in, this bisque is sure to be a hit! Creamy Shrimp Bisque

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soup:

32 ounces large shrimp, shell and tail on
2 cups water
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 Vidalia onion, diced
1 fennel bulb, sliced thin
1 garlic clove, crushed
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups seafood stock
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 cups seafood stock
1 (14-ounce) can fire roasted diced tomatoes
1 ¼ cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Directions

Steam the Shrimp:

In a large pot, steam the shrimp in 2 cups of water with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt for about 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
Using tongs, transfer the shrimp to a plate and allow to cool. Reserve the steaming liquid for the stock.

Peel the Shrimp:

Once the shrimp are cool enough to handle, peel them and set them aside. Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the Vegetables:

In the same large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
Add the fennel and cook until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the tomato paste and cook until the mixture becomes a deep burgundy color.

Simmer the Broth:

Add 2 cups of seafood stock, the reserved steaming liquid, fresh thyme, bay leaf, paprika, cayenne pepper, and fire roasted diced tomatoes to the pot.
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup:

Remove the bay leaf from the broth.
Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy.

Finish the Soup:

Stir in 1 ¼ cups heavy cream and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serve:

Divide the chopped shrimp among your soup bowls.
Ladle the hot soup over the shrimp.
Serve immediately and garnish with fennel fronds if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Add extra vegetables: You can add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks for added flavor and texture.
Spicy kick: If you prefer a spicier bisque, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give it some extra heat.
Non-dairy option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the bisque over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking, and proceed with the recipe as usual.

2. Can I substitute seafood stock with vegetable stock?

While seafood stock adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable stock if you prefer a lighter bisque or want to make it vegetarian.

3. How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when cooked. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

4. Can I make this bisque ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the bisque ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it and add the shrimp before serving.

5. Can I use a blender instead of an immersion blender?

Yes, you can use a regular blender to blend the soup in batches. Just be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending, and be careful when blending hot liquids.

6. How can I make the bisque thicker?

If you’d like a thicker bisque, you can add a small amount of cornstarch or flour mixed with water, or simmer the soup for a little longer to reduce it.

7. Can I use a different type of fish instead of shrimp?

While shrimp is the traditional choice for this bisque, you can use other seafood like crab, lobster, or even a firm white fish for a variation.

8. Can I freeze this bisque?

Yes, this bisque can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

9. What can I serve with shrimp bisque?

Shrimp bisque pairs well with a side of crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

10. Can I make this bisque spicier?

Yes, you can adjust the level of spice by increasing the cayenne pepper or adding a bit of chili paste or hot sauce.

Conclusion

This Creamy Shrimp Bisque is the perfect combination of rich, creamy soup and fresh, juicy shrimp. With its delicate flavors, smooth texture, and the addition of aromatic herbs and spices, it’s a dish that will impress anyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or as the main course, this bisque is a comforting and flavorful option for any occasion.