Creamy Shrimp Bisque

Creamy Shrimp Bisque

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (save the shells for stock)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups seafood or chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp Stock:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the shrimp shells and cook until they turn pink and fragrant.
   • Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a couple of minutes.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine.
   • Gradually add the seafood or chicken stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Strain the Stock:
   • Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
   • Discard the solids and return the stock to the pot.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   • In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Bisque:
   • Add the white wine (if using) to the pot with the stock and bring to a simmer.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and paprika.
   • Use an immersion blender to puree the bisque until smooth. (Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.)
   • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Finish the Bisque:
   • Chop the cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces (reserve a few whole for garnish) and add them to the bisque.
   • Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and whole shrimp.
   • Serve with crusty bread on the side.

Enjoy your creamy shrimp bisque!