Shrimp and Crab Bisque

With the holidays approaching, are you looking for a delicious and easy appetizer that is sure to impress your dinner guests? Look no further. This shrimp and crab bisque is fine restaurant quality without the high price tag. I’ve tried many bisques and most times am disappointed by the lack of actual fish chunks. Not here. This dish is loaded with fresh shrimp and crab in every bite!

This dish serves well as an appetizer for a larger group (6-8 people), however with some nice fresh bread could also be served as the main meal for a smaller group (3-4 people). You can certainly customize it with the types of seafood you prefer (ex, only crab or only shrimp), however I would just be sure to adjust the amount to have about 16 ounces total. This dish does have a slight kick so if you want a more milder flavor just omit the cayenne. if Let me know what you think of my shrimp and crab bisque!

Shrimp and Crab Bisque

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 4 ribs celery, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 chicken bouillon cubes
  • dash ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp garlic salt
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp worcestshire sauce
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • bell pepper wedge
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 8 oz crab meat
  • 8 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pint heavy whipping cream

Instructions
 

  • In a large heavy dutch oven, create a roux by combining butter and flour over medium high heat, constantly stirring until light brown
  • Add chopped celery and onion. Cook until soft.
  • Add water, milk, bouillon cubes, cloves, garlic salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, tabasco, worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, bell pepper wedge, and bay leaf. Stir well.
  • Chop de-shelled raw shrimp in food processor. Add to dutch oven.
  • Simmer 1-2 hours covered with small vent, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove bell pepper wedge and bay leaf. Skim any excess oil from the top.
  • Add crab meat and heat thoroughly.
  • Wait to add cream until right before serving. Heat but do not boil.
  • Serve in cups as an appetizer or bowls as a meal.