Lobster bisque is a rich and creamy soup that is typically made with lobster meat, cream, and a flavorful broth. It’s a classic French dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party. Here’s a recipe to make lobster bisque at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 lobsters (about 1 1/2 lbs. each)
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of dry white wine
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of thyme
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of brandy or cognac
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lobsters and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the shells turn bright red.
- Remove the lobsters from the pot and let them cool. Remove the meat from the claws, tails, and bodies and chop it into small pieces. Reserve the shells.
- In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the garlic, bay leaf, and thyme and sauté for another minute.
- Add the lobster shells, chicken broth, white wine, and tomato paste to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Remove the lobster shells and discard them.
- Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and purée it in batches.
- Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream, brandy or cognac, and chopped lobster meat. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the soup over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, or until it is heated through.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with some chopped chives or parsley.
Lobster bisque is a luxurious and decadent soup that is perfect for a special occasion. Serve it with some crusty bread and a glass of white wine for a truly indulgent meal. Enjoy!