There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy lobster bisque with sherry. The velvety texture, the rich flavors, and the succulent lobster make this dish an unforgettable experience. Perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a restaurant-quality bisque at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Luxurious: The combination of lobster, cream, and sherry creates a dish that’s both indulgent and comforting.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Impress your guests with a homemade bisque that feels gourmet.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs, including gluten-free options.

Ingredients for Creamy Lobster Bisque with Sherry

Ingredient	Quantity
Lobster tails (4 oz each)	4 (thawed if frozen)
Butter	2 tbsp
Yellow onion (finely chopped)	1 medium
Celery (finely chopped)	2 stalks
Carrots (peeled, finely chopped)	2
Kosher salt	1/2 tsp
Black pepper	To taste
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Tomato paste	2 tbsp
All-purpose or gluten-free flour	2 tbsp
Seafood or fish stock	5 cups
Dry white wine	1/2 cup
Bay leaf	1
Fresh thyme	3 sprigs
Chopped chives	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

• Over medium heat, melt butter in a large pot.
• Add the finely chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6-7 minutes until softened.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Add Aromatics and Tomato Paste

• Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, ensuring the paste coats the vegetables.
• Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Thicken the Base

• Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture and stir well.
• Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.

4. Add Liquids and Herbs

• Slowly pour in the seafood stock and white wine, stirring constantly.
• Add the bay leaf and thyme sprigs.
• Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and the flavors to combine.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Blend to Perfection

• Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs from the pot.
• Using a blender, puree the soup in batches until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for convenience.
• Return the pureed soup to the pot.

6. Cook the Lobster

• Bring the soup back to medium-low heat.
• Add the lobster tails directly into the bisque. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the lobster is opaque and cooked through.

7. Serve and Garnish

• Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy decadence.

Pro Tips for the Best Lobster Bisque

1. Use Fresh Lobster: For the best flavor, opt for fresh lobster tails. Frozen is fine, but make sure to thaw them properly.
2. Don’t Overcook the Lobster: Lobster becomes rubbery if overcooked, so keep an eye on it while simmering.
3. Blend Smoothly: Ensure the bisque is velvety by thoroughly blending the mixture.
4. Enhance with Sherry: Add a splash of sherry just before serving for a refined flavor boost.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 cup)
Calories	320
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fat	22g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	650mg

Delicious Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace seafood stock with vegetable stock and use roasted mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.

What to Serve with Lobster Bisque

• Sides: Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad.
• Drinks: Pair with a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Desserts: Finish with a light dessert like panna cotta or lemon sorbet.

FAQs About Creamy Lobster Bisque with Sherry

1. Can I make lobster bisque ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the bisque up to the blending stage. Refrigerate and reheat gently before adding the lobster.

2. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.

3. Can I freeze lobster bisque? Yes, but avoid freezing with the lobster added. Prepare and freeze the bisque base, then add fresh lobster when reheating.

4. What other seafood can I use? Shrimp, crab, or scallops make excellent substitutes or additions to lobster.

5. Can I use pre-cooked lobster? Yes, add pre-cooked lobster at the end of cooking to warm through without overcooking.

6. How do I prevent a gritty texture? Strain the bisque through a fine mesh sieve after blending for an ultra-smooth finish.

Why This Recipe Will Be a Showstopper

Creamy lobster bisque with sherry is the epitome of culinary indulgence. Its rich, buttery flavor and luxurious texture make it a dish that’s worth every step. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic dinner or a special family gathering, this bisque is guaranteed to impress.

Your Next Move

Ready to create a masterpiece in your kitchen? Gather your ingredients, follow this simple recipe, and savor the magic of homemade lobster bisque. For more seafood inspiration, visit Epicurious or Bon Appétit.

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