Description
This creamy New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is a comforting, flavorful soup packed with tender shrimp, sweet corn, and a rich, seasoned broth. Infused with the bold flavors of Cajun spices, this bisque is both hearty and satisfyingโperfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with a taste of Louisiana.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (reserve shells for stock)
- 4 cups seafood or chicken stock (preferably homemade with shrimp shells)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Stock (Optional):
- If using shrimp shells, place them in a pot with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes. Strain and set aside.
- Sautรฉ the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sautรฉ until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the Roux:
- Stir in the flour to make a light roux. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Add Liquids & Seasoning:
- Slowly whisk in the stock (or broth), ensuring no lumps. Add the wine (if using), tomato paste, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Corn & Shrimp:
- Add corn and cook for 5 minutes. Add shrimp and simmer until pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Finish the Bisque:
- Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice as needed. Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve:
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup before adding the shrimp.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.