Lobster bisque is a luxurious and indulgent soup that showcases the delicate flavor of lobster. This recipe combines the richness of lobster with a flavorful broth and a touch of Cognac, resulting in a decadent and satisfying dish. With the perfect balance of seafood, aromatics, and creamy texture, lobster bisque is a show-stopping appetizer or main course that is sure to impress your guests.
INGREDIENTS:
- 700g/1 1/2lb lobster
- 100g/4oz butter
- 50g/2oz carrots, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 bay leaf
- Pinch of thyme
- 2 sprigs of fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 3 tablespoons Cognac
- 75ml/3fl oz dry white wine
- 125ml/4fl oz fish stock
- 50g/2oz plain flour
- 350ml/12fl oz boiling milk
- 3 tablespoons double cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Crack the lobster claws and cut the body and tail into four or five pieces. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, sauté the diced carrots and chopped onion in 25g/1oz of butter for 5 minutes.
- Add the bay leaf, thyme, parsley, and lobster pieces to the saucepan. Cook for about 5 minutes until the lobster turns red. Add 2 tablespoons of Cognac and ignite it.
- Once the flames die down, add the white wine and fish stock. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove the meat from the lobster, keeping the shells and broth aside.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to make a roux. Gradually add the boiling milk, whisking or stirring with a wooden spoon until smooth.
- Crush the lobster shells and add them to the sauce. Pour in the reserved broth with the vegetables. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
- Strain the mixture through a sieve into a clean pan. Bring it to a boil and stir in the double cream.
- Add the lobster meat and the remaining Cognac. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve the lobster bisque hot.
YIELD:
- This recipe yields approximately 4 servings of lobster bisque.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Take caution when igniting the Cognac to avoid any accidents. Keep a lid nearby to smother the flames if necessary.
TIPS:
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish each serving with a small lobster claw or a drizzle of cream.
- Serve the lobster bisque with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a delightful accompaniment.
Lobster bisque is a classic and elegant soup that combines the delicate flavor of lobster with a rich and creamy broth. This recipe takes advantage of the natural sweetness of lobster and enhances it with a blend of aromatics and a splash of Cognac. The result is a luxurious and indulgent soup that will leave you craving more.
By following the step-by-step instructions, you’ll create a flavorful broth by sautéing carrots, onions, and lobster pieces before simmering them with white wine and fish stock. Straining the mixture and adding a roux made from butter, flour, and milk creates a velvety smooth base for the bisque. The addition of double cream adds a luscious richness.
The lobster meat, cooked separately and added to the bisque along with the remaining Cognac, brings a tender and succulent element to the soup. The final touch of seasoning with salt and pepper ensures a well-balanced flavor.
Lobster bisque is a perfect choice for a special occasion or a gourmet dinner. Its rich and complex flavors will impress your guests and elevate the dining experience. Serve it as an elegant appetizer or as a main course alongside crusty bread or oyster crackers.
With this recipe, you can confidently create a restaurant-quality lobster bisque that will leave a lasting impression. Don’t hesitate to indulge in this decadent and flavorful soup.
