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A steaming bowl of creamy shrimp bisque, perfect as a starter.

Classic Creamy Shrimp Bisque Starter

A luxurious and flavorful shrimp bisque perfect as a starter. This recipe utilizes shrimp shells to create a rich homemade stock, enhancing the bisque's depth.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Raw shrimp (≈ 450 g) peeled, deveined, shells saved
  • 3 Tbsp Unsalted butter
  • 1 Yellow onion large, finely diced
  • 3 Garlic cloves minced
  • 2 Tbsp Tomato paste
  • ½ cup Dry sherry or white wine
  • 4 cups Shrimp (or seafood) stock
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp Fresh thyme leaves (or 1 sprig)
  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives or microgreens for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Shrimp Stock
  1. Toss shrimp shells with butter in a pot; sauté until pink and fragrant.
  2. Add onion, salt, and thyme; cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in cold water, boil, then simmer for 20 minutes, skimming foam.

Notes

For a richer flavor, roast the shrimp shells lightly before making the stock.