Indulge in the flavors of New England with this creamy and decadent Lobster Bisque. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lobsters, cooked and meat removed
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups seafood stock
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chives for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Slowly whisk in the seafood stock until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the lobster meat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
7. Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with chives.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 23g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Protein: 20g
**Popular Questions:**
1. Can I use frozen lobster meat instead of fresh?
– Yes, you can use frozen lobster meat, just make sure it is fully thawed before using in the recipe.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
– You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, but it may affect the richness of the bisque.
3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
– You can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make the bisque gluten-free.
4. Can I make this bisque ahead of time and reheat it?
– Yes, you can make the bisque ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
5. Can I add other seafood to this bisque?
– You can add shrimp, crab meat, or scallops to the bisque for a seafood medley variation.
6. How long can I store leftovers of this bisque in the refrigerator?
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
7. Can I freeze this bisque?
– Yes, you can freeze the bisque in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
8. How can I make this bisque dairy-free?
– You can use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
9. Can I make this bisque using pre-cooked lobster meat?
– Yes, you can use pre-cooked lobster meat for convenience, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
10. What is the best way to cook and extract meat from fresh lobsters?
– Boil or steam the lobsters until cooked through, then carefully remove the meat from the shells.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. For added flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or sherry to the bisque.
2. Top with additional lobster meat or a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious touch.
3. To achieve a thicker consistency, blend in a small potato or additional flour.
4. Experiment with different herbs like tarragon or parsley for a variation in flavor.
5. Serve the bisque with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a complete meal.
6. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
7. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra creaminess.
8. Toast the lobster shells and simmer with the stock for a richer bisque flavor.
9. Use a high-quality seafood stock for the best base flavor in the bisque.
10. Make a larger batch and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Ensure the vegetables are finely chopped for a smoother texture in the bisque.
2. Use the lobster shells to infuse additional flavor by simmering them in the stock.
3. Be careful not to overcook the bisque once the cream is added to prevent curdling.
4. Adjust the consistency of the bisque by adding more stock or cream as needed.
5. Taste and season the bisque at the end to adjust the salt and pepper levels to your preference.
6. Allow the bisque to simmer gently to develop the flavors without boiling.
7. For a touch of sweetness, add a teaspoon of tomato paste to enhance the bisque.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Serve the bisque hot but not boiling to preserve the delicate flavors.
10. Experiment with different seafood combinations like lobster and shrimp for a twist on this classic dish.