Shrimp Bisque

“Soup and salad is my summertime lunch staple. After having a grocery-store prepared Lobster Bisque when I was sick earlier in the year, I wanted to make something similar. This by far exceeded my expectations. It is so addicting! I prefer to make this with heavy cream, but for a few less calories, use half and half.” – April Ferre

Shrimp Bisque

Course: Soup

Ingredients

  • 1 Pound Shrimp Shells Reserved
  • 4 Cups Seafood Stock
  • 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2 Cups (3 Large) Leeks Chopped
  • 3 Large Stalks Celery Chopped
  • 3 Medium Carrots Chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon Garlic Minced
  • Pinch Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/4 Cup Cognac or Brandy
  • 1/4 Cup Dry Sherry
  • 1/4 Cup Butter
  • 1/4 Cup Flour
  • 2 Cups Half & Half or Heavy Cream
  • 1/3 Cup Tomato Paste
  • 1 Teaspoon Salt
  • Pepper To Taste
  • 1 Tablespoon Fresh Basil Chopped

Instructions

  • Place the shrimp shells and seafood stock in a saucepan and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain and reserve the stock.
  • Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the leeks, celery and carrots and cook them for 10 minutes over medium low heat until tender. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
  • Chop shrimp into small pieces. Add the cayenne pepper and shrimp and cook over medium heat for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the Cognac and cook 1 minute, then add the sherry and cook 3 more minutes. Transfer mixture to a blender or food processor and puree.
  • In the same pot, melt the butter. Add flour and cook over medium-low heat for 1 minute, stirring with a wooden spoon. Add the half and half and cook, stirring with a whisk, until thickened, about 3 minutes.
  • Stir in the shrimp puree, stock, tomato paste, salt, pepper and basil. Gently heat until hot but not boiling. Season to taste and serve.

2017 Adapted Recipe – April Ferre – From Ina Garten, Food Network