Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to enhance the flavor.
2. Prepare the Roux
Next, you’ll create a roux, which acts as a thickening agent for the bisque. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned. This process ensures the roux is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings
Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken broth, stirring as you go to blend the roux with the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir in the corn kernels, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you prefer a spicier bisque), salt, and black pepper. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the corn to soften.
4. Finish with Cream and Shrimp
Once the bisque has simmered, stir in the heavy cream to add richness. Then, add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become tough.
5. Serve and Garnish
Your New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is ready! Ladle the bisque into bowls, then garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of this Southern classic.
Tips for Making the Perfect Shrimp and Corn Bisque
Here are a few tips to help you make the best New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque possible:
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
While frozen shrimp and corn can work in a pinch, using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavors of your bisque. Fresh shrimp and corn bring out the natural sweetness and tenderness in the dish.
2. Adjust the Heat
If you’re a fan of spicy food, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the cayenne entirely.
3. Thicken the Bisque
If you find that your bisque isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can blend part of the soup to create a smoother consistency. Simply use an immersion blender or transfer some of the bisque to a blender, then mix it back in with the rest of the soup.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Wondering how this bisque fits into your daily nutrition goals? Here’s a breakdown of the nutrients:
Nutrition Details
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 8%
Health Benefits
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