Seafood Bisque with Scallops, Cod, and Shrimp

### **How to Make Seafood Bisque with Scallops, Cod, and Shrimp**

#### **Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables**
– In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

#### **Step 2: Create the Roux**
– Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. It will help thicken the bisque later.

#### **Step 3: Add the Liquid**
– Gradually pour in the fish stock, whisking constantly to ensure there are no lumps. Add the white wine (if using), Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.

#### **Step 4: Add the Cream**
– Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer. Let the bisque cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

#### **Step 5: Cook the Seafood**
– Gently add the cod, shrimp, and scallops to the bisque. Simmer for about 4-5 minutes, or until the seafood is just cooked through and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough.

#### **Step 6: Blend the Bisque (Optional)**
– For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the bisque, leaving some chunks of seafood and vegetables for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and pulse until smooth, then return it to the pot.

#### **Step 7: Serve**
– Ladle the seafood bisque into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill. Serve with a wedge of lemon for a touch of brightness, and enjoy with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious broth.

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### **Tips for the Best Seafood Bisque**
– **Fresh Seafood**: The fresher your seafood, the more flavorful your bisque will be. Try to use fresh, high-quality scallops, shrimp, and cod for the best results.
– **Adjust the Thickness**: If you prefer a thinner bisque, you can add more stock or a little water. For a richer, thicker bisque, use less liquid or add more cream.
– **Add a Touch of Spice**: For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to bring a bit of heat to the soup.
– **Make Ahead**: This bisque can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra cream if needed to maintain the texture.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

Pair your Seafood Bisque with:
– **Crusty Bread**: Serve with warm, buttered baguette slices or garlic bread for dipping.
– **Fresh Salad**: A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the bisque.
– **White Wine**: A glass of crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy, seafood-rich soup.

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### **Why Seafood Bisque is a Must-Try Dish**

Seafood bisque is the epitome of indulgence—creamy, savory, and filled with the flavors of the ocean. The combination of scallops, cod, and shrimp provides an incredible array of textures and tastes, making every spoonful a rich and satisfying experience. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner, celebrating a holiday, or simply treating yourself, this seafood bisque is guaranteed to be a showstopper.

Make this dish today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience with a sophisticated twist! 🍲🦐🐟