Lobster Bisque
Introduction
Lobster Bisque is a rich and creamy seafood soup classic French dish. It is traditionally made with lobster, vegetables, tomato paste, white wine, and fish or vegetable stock. The finished soup is then garnished with fresh parsley and served hot. Lobster Bisque is a luxurious and decadent dish that will impress your guests.
Ease of preparation
Lobster Bisque is surprisingly easy to make, despite its luxurious taste. The ingredients can be found in most grocery stores, and the preparation is relatively straightforward. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare the soup, which needs to be simmered for an additional 15 minutes.
Nutritional information
Lobster Bisque is a high-calorie dish, with about 563 calories per serving. It is also high in fat, with 36 grams per serving. It is a good source of protein, with 24 grams per serving, and it also provides a good amount of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Ingredients
-2 tablespoons of butter
-1 onion, finely chopped
-2 cloves of garlic, minced
-1 celery stalk, chopped
-1 carrot, chopped
-2 tablespoons of tomato paste
-2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
-1 cup of white wine
-4 cups of fish or vegetable stock
-1 bay leaf
-1 teaspoon of dried thyme
-1 teaspoon of dried oregano
-2 tablespoons of brandy
-1 lb of cooked lobster meat, chopped
-1/2 cup of heavy cream
-Salt and pepper, to taste
-Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation method
To begin, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot and cook until the vegetables are softened about 5 minutes. Add the tomato paste and flour and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the white wine and stir to combine.
Next, add the fish or vegetable stock, bay leaf, thyme, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the brandy and cooked lobster meat and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Finally, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking tips
Try adding a splash of sherry or cognac to the soup for a richer flavour.
For a vegan soup, use vegetable stock and omit lobster and cream.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicier soup.
Flavour/Taste
Lobster Bisque is a rich and creamy soup that is full of flavour. The sweetness of the lobster is balanced by the acidity of the white wine, while the herbs and spices add an excellent depth of flavour. The soup also has a subtle hint of brandy, which adds a nice complexity to the dish.
Best dishes paired with
Lobster Bisque pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is traditionally served with a crusty baguette but also goes well with a green salad or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, serve the soup with a side of steamed rice or mashed potatoes.
Origin of dish and history
Lobster Bisque is believed to have originated in the southern French city of Marseille in the 18th century. It was originally made with seafood, including lobster, shrimp, and mussels. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the lobster became the star ingredient. Today, Lobster Bisque is a classic French dish that is enjoyed around the world.
Popular alternatives
If you don’t have lobster on hand, other seafood can be used to make a delicious bisque. Shrimp, mussels, and crab all work well in this dish. Try using mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Whatever you use, the result will be a flavorful and comforting soup.