Classic Lobster Bisque Recipe — A Decadent Delight
Introduction:
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the sea with our Classic Lobster Bisque recipe. This velvety-smooth soup captures the essence of succulent lobster in a rich, creamy base that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or treating yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Get ready to elevate your dining experience with this timeless and elegant dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 lobsters (about 1 to 1.5 pounds each)
- 4 cups fish or seafood broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lobsters:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
- Carefully place the lobsters into the boiling water and cook for about 8–10 minutes until they turn bright red.
- Remove the lobsters from the water and let them cool. Once cool, crack the shells and extract the meat. Chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Reserve the shells for later use.
2. Create the Flavor Base:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
- Stir in the tomato paste and flour. Cook for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Build the Bisque:
- Pour in the white wine and cook for a few minutes to reduce and intensify the flavors.
- Add the fish or seafood broth, bay leaf, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes.
4. Blend and Strain:
- Remove the bay leaf from the pot.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids, ensuring a velvety texture.
5. Add the Cream and Lobster:
- Return the strained mixture to the pot and place it over low heat.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the bisque to heat through without boiling.
6. Final Touches:
- Gently fold in the chopped lobster meat and let it warm in the bisque for a few minutes.
7. Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the lobster bisque into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for an added burst of color and freshness.
Conclusion:
Elevate your dining experience with the sophisticated flavors of our Classic Lobster Bisque. This indulgent soup brings the essence of the sea to your table, showcasing the delicate sweetness of lobster in a velvety, creamy base. With its luxurious taste and elegant presentation, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself to a culinary masterpiece.