Lobster Bisque Soup Recipe

ByEmma

Lobster bisque is a luxurious and creamy soup that is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a rich and flavorful dish. This recipe combines the sweet, delicate taste of lobster with a smooth, velvety texture, making it an irresistible starter or main course.

Ingredients for Lobster Bisque

To make a delicious lobster bisque, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 lobster tails, cooked and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup brandy or cognac (for added depth of flavor)
  • 4 cups lobster stock (or seafood stock)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
  • 1 teaspoon thyme, dried or fresh
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Pro Tip:

If you can’t find lobster stock, you can substitute with seafood stock or make your own by simmering lobster shells in water with aromatics. The flavor will be richer and more authentic!

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lobster

Start by cooking your lobster tails. If they’re not already cooked, you can boil them in salted water for about 6-8 minutes or until they turn red and opaque. Remove the lobster meat from the shells and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.

3. Add Tomato Paste and Brandy

Add tomato paste to the vegetables and cook for another 2 minutes. This adds depth of flavor and a slight sweetness. Next, carefully pour in 1/2 cup brandy or cognac. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the alcohol evaporate and enhance the taste.

4. Simmer the Stock

Add lobster stock (or seafood stock) to the pot, along with the thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.

5. Thicken the Soup

In a separate small pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 2 minutes, creating a roux. Slowly whisk in a bit of the hot stock from the pot until smooth, then slowly pour this mixture back into the soup. This will help thicken the bisque and give it a creamy consistency.

6. Blend the Soup

Remove the bay leaf from the soup and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.

7. Add the Cream and Lobster

Once the soup is blended to a smooth consistency, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and the reserved lobster meat. Let the bisque simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the lobster to warm through and the flavors to combine.

8. Final Seasoning

Taste the bisque and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a dash of lemon juice for brightness.

9. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the lobster bisque into bowls, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lobster Bisque:

  • Lobster Meat: The fresher the lobster, the better the bisque will taste. If you have access to fresh lobster, don’t hesitate to use it. You can also use pre-cooked lobster meat, but make sure it’s good quality.
  • Don’t Overcook the Lobster: Overcooking lobster can make it tough, so be sure to remove it from the heat as soon as it’s opaque and firm.
  • Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! You can make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat it gently before serving.
  • For Extra Luxury: Add a swirl of truffle oil or a dollop of crème fraîche on top when serving.

Enjoy!

This lobster bisque is sure to impress your guests or be the perfect comforting dish for yourself. With its rich flavors, silky texture, and decadent lobster meat, it’s a culinary experience that’s hard to beat!

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