Creamy Cajun Seafood Bisque with Sweet Corn

The Fresh Prawn & Scallop Bisque is a seafood lover’s dream, combining tender shrimp, plump scallops, and sweet corn in a luxuriously creamy base. The Cajun spice blend adds just the right amount of heat, balancing the richness of the heavy cream and sharp cheddar cheese. Every spoonful is packed with bold flavors, creating the ultimate comforting bowl of soup.

Perfect for chilly evenings or special gatherings, this bisque is sure to impress. The smoky bacon, aromatic garlic, and velvety texture make it a dish that feels indulgent yet familiar. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that warms the soul with every bite.

Full Recipe:

  • 8 ears of corn, shucked
  • 4 stalks of celery, diced
  • 1 large yellow onion, minced
  • 1 lb (16 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, cubed small
  • 2 quarts (64 fl oz) heavy cream, simmered
  • 10 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups (473.16 grams) white wine
  • 2 lbs (32 oz) fresh shrimp, medium diced
  • 2 lbs (32 oz) fresh scallops, medium diced
  • 1/2 lb thick-cut bacon, diced
  • Generous pinch of Cajun spice (or Old Bay)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Cut the bacon into chunks and render the fat in a pot over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside.
  2. Drain excess bacon fat and save for another use.
  3. Lay an ear of corn on its side and carefully slice down to remove the kernels. Repeat with all ears of corn.
  4. Peel, devein, and dice shrimp, reserving the shells.
  5. In a stock pot, heat 1/4 cup oil and sauté garlic, celery, and onion until fragrant.
  6. In a separate pot, combine shrimp shells and white wine. Simmer and reduce by half.
  7. Add the wine reduction to the stock pot along with the sautéed vegetables.
  8. Stir in raw shrimp, scallops, corn, bacon bits, and warm heavy cream.
  9. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until seafood is fully cooked, the corn is tender, and the soup reaches the desired thickness.
  10. To thicken further, mix 1 part water with 2 parts cornstarch and stir into the soup. Simmer until thickened.
  11. Ladle into bowls and garnish with cubed cheddar and additional Cajun spice.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal per serving | Servings: 4-6

A Rich and Comforting Seafood Bisque for Every Occasion

If you’re looking for a dish that embodies comfort, elegance, and bold flavors all in one, the Fresh Prawn & Scallop Bisque is a must-try. This luxurious soup is a perfect blend of sweet corn, tender seafood, creamy cheddar, and a bold Cajun spice mix, making it an irresistible choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. The bisque’s rich texture and depth of flavor make it a standout recipe, perfect for warming up on chilly evenings or impressing guests at a dinner party.

The History and Origin of Bisque

Bisque is a classic French soup that has been enjoyed for centuries. Traditionally made with shellfish, the dish is known for its velvety texture and intense seafood flavor. The term “bisque” is believed to have originated from the Bay of Biscay, a region along the French and Spanish coasts, known for its rich seafood traditions. Originally, bisques were prepared using crustacean shells, which were ground into a fine paste to add flavor and thickness to the broth. Over time, variations of bisque emerged, incorporating ingredients like cream, wine, and different types of seafood, making it a globally loved dish.

The Fresh Prawn & Scallop Bisque takes inspiration from this traditional French dish while adding a modern and bold Cajun twist. The addition of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a special spice blend elevates this bisque into a dish that is both classic and contemporary.

The Secret to an Extra Flavorful Bisque

What makes this bisque truly exceptional is the depth of flavor achieved through careful layering of ingredients. Instead of simply boiling seafood in a broth, this recipe builds complexity by incorporating a few essential techniques:

  • Bacon Rendering: The bisque starts with crisping up thick-cut bacon, adding a smoky and savory undertone to the soup. The rendered fat infuses the base with rich flavors, making every spoonful more indulgent.
  • Homemade Seafood Stock: Instead of using store-bought stock, this recipe utilizes shrimp shells simmered in white wine. This step extracts the natural sweetness and briny goodness of the shrimp, intensifying the bisque’s seafood essence.
  • Cajun Spice Blend: A carefully chosen mix of spices, including paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder, gives this bisque a subtle kick of heat and a complex, well-rounded flavor.

These simple yet impactful techniques transform a good bisque into a truly unforgettable dish.

Why Corn Works So Well in This Recipe

Corn might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind when thinking of bisque, but in this recipe, it plays a crucial role. The natural sweetness of fresh corn kernels balances the richness of the cream and the savoriness of the bacon and seafood. Additionally, the corn provides a subtle texture contrast, offering bursts of flavor with each bite.

For best results, fresh corn on the cob is recommended, but if it’s not in season, frozen or canned corn can also work. The key is to allow the corn to fully cook and absorb the flavors of the bisque, ensuring it blends seamlessly into the overall taste profile.

How to Achieve the Perfect Bisque Texture

One of the defining characteristics of a great bisque is its silky-smooth texture. Here are a few essential tips to achieve the perfect consistency:

  • Blend Carefully: If you prefer a completely smooth bisque, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches a creamy consistency. However, some prefer to leave chunks of seafood and corn intact for added texture.
  • Use a Cornstarch Slurry: If the bisque needs additional thickening, a simple cornstarch slurry (a mix of cornstarch and water) can be stirred in during the final stages of cooking. This helps create a velvety finish without altering the flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Overcooked shrimp and scallops can become rubbery, so it’s essential to add them towards the end of the cooking process and allow them to cook just until tender.

Pairing Suggestions for the Ultimate Dining Experience

This bisque is already rich and satisfying on its own, but the right pairings can take it to the next level. Here are some delicious side dishes and drink options that complement the flavors of this dish:

  • Crusty French Bread: A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy bisque, soaking up every last drop of flavor.
  • Simple Green Salad: A light, citrusy salad with arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved Parmesan balances out the richness of the bisque.
  • Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp white wine with bright acidity pairs beautifully with the creamy seafood flavors, enhancing the bisque without overpowering it.
  • Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers: For an extra seafood boost, serve the bisque alongside grilled shrimp skewers seasoned with garlic and butter.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make this bisque look as impressive as it tastes, presentation is key. Here are a few ways to elevate the visual appeal of the dish:

  • Garnish with Extra Cheddar: A sprinkle of cubed cheddar on top of each bowl adds a pop of color and a final touch of indulgence.
  • Top with Crispy Bacon Bits: Reserving some bacon pieces for garnish provides a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy soup.
  • Use a Drizzle of Cream: A swirl of heavy cream on the surface of the bisque adds a professional touch and makes the dish look even more inviting.
  • Serve in a Warmed Bowl: Warming the serving bowls before ladling in the bisque ensures that it stays hot for longer, providing the best possible experience.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

The Fresh Prawn & Scallop Bisque is incredibly versatile and suits a variety of dining occasions:

  • Casual Family Dinners: Despite its gourmet flavors, this bisque is easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a cozy night in.
  • Holiday Celebrations: The rich, creamy texture and elegant presentation make it a standout dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering.
  • Dinner Parties: Serve this bisque as an appetizer before a seafood main course, impressing your guests with its refined taste and beautiful presentation.
  • Meal Prep: Since bisques often taste even better the next day, this dish is a great make-ahead option that can be reheated for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

The Fresh Prawn & Scallop Bisque is a true masterpiece of flavors, combining the delicate sweetness of seafood with the richness of cream, cheddar, and smoky bacon. Its Cajun seasoning provides just the right amount of heat, while the fresh corn adds a delightful texture that makes every bite satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family meal or a sophisticated dinner party, this bisque is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

From its carefully layered ingredients to its luxurious texture, this bisque is a dish worth savoring. Serve it with crusty bread, pair it with a glass of white wine, and enjoy an indulgent meal that celebrates the best of seafood cuisine.

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