Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with our Shrimp and Crab Bisque with Roasted Corn! This creamy, savory soup is perfect for those days when you crave something warm and comforting yet a bit luxurious. With the sweet pop of roasted corn and the richness of seafood, it's a bowl of indulgence you'll return to time and again.
The base of this bisque starts with unsalted butter, giving it a rich, smooth start. The combination of shrimp and crab meat provides a deliciously sweet and savory seafood punch, with the shrimp offering a tender bite while the crab brings a delicate flavor. Roasted corn kernels add a touch of sweetness and a lovely texture contrast. Onion and garlic are sautéed to lay a flavorful foundation. Fish or seafood stock is the liquid base, enhancing the seafood flavors, while heavy cream adds the luxurious, creamy texture. A splash of sherry wine elevates the taste with a hint of nuttiness. Dried thyme and a touch of cayenne pepper provide aromatic and spicy notes, while salt and pepper round out the seasoning. All-purpose flour is used to thicken the bisque, and olive oil complements the butter, adding depth to the sauté. Finally, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley offers a fresh, vibrant garnish.
This bisque is perfect as a starter for a seafood-themed dinner or as a comforting main course. Pair with a crusty baguette or a warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up every last drop. A light, crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the bisque beautifully.
Start by grabbing a large pot and placing it over medium heat. Melt the butter and olive oil together, which will create a delicious base for sautéing. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, and let them cook until they're translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid browning.
Once your onions and garlic are just right, sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously for about two minutes to form a roux. This step is crucial for the bisque's smooth texture.
Now, slowly add in the seafood stock and sherry, whisking as you go to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Time to add the personality! Toss in the roasted corn, thyme, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer together for 10 minutes, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the bisque back to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens—watch as it transforms into a creamy, velvety delight.
Gently fold in the shrimp and crab meat. Cook just until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through, which should take about five minutes. Take care not to overcook, as you want the seafood to remain tender and juicy.
Remove the pot from heat and let the bisque rest for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and meld perfectly. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.