Craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This shrimp and corn bisque recipe delivers a delightful blend of sweet corn, succulent shrimp, and a luxuriously creamy broth. It’s the perfect healthy meal for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated starter for a special occasion. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and will quickly become one of your best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the flavor base: Add the corn kernels to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Simmer and blend: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the corn flavors to meld with the broth. Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Important Note: If using a regular blender, vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
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Incorporate cream and shrimp: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked shrimp. Gently heat through, being careful not to boil. Season with cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the shrimp and corn bisque into bowls. Garnish with fresh chives and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Bisque:
- Fresh is best: Using fresh corn will significantly elevate the flavor of your bisque. If using frozen corn, ensure it's thawed before adding it to the pot.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will become tough. Use pre-cooked shrimp to ensure perfect tenderness.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thinner bisque, add a little more chicken broth. For a thicker bisque, simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of sherry for extra depth of flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp and Corn Bisque: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Lobster Bisque: Substitute cooked lobster meat for the shrimp for a luxurious twist.
- Vegetarian Bisque: Omit the shrimp and add a cup of cooked quinoa or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This shrimp and corn bisque recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and flavorful dish, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying quick dinner idea!