Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl

#### Instructions:

**Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowls**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the top off each bread loaf to create a “lid,” leaving about 1-1.5 inches of bread inside to form the bowl. Carefully scoop out the soft interior of the bread to create a hollow space for the soup, leaving a thick enough crust so the bread doesn’t collapse.
3. Brush the inside and outside of the bread with a light coating of olive oil for extra flavor and to help it crisp up in the oven.
4. Place the hollowed-out bread bowls and their tops on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the bread is crispy and lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

**Step 2: Make the Seafood Soup**
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Stir in the seafood stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

**Step 3: Add the Seafood and Thicken the Soup**
1. Once the soup base has simmered, add the mixed seafood and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and tender. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become rubbery.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth to create a slurry.
3. Slowly add the slurry to the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to a creamy consistency. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more flour or cream as desired.
4. Season the soup with thyme, white pepper, salt, and a splash of lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

**Step 4: Assemble the Bread Bowls**
1. Carefully ladle the hot seafood soup into each prepared bread bowl, making sure to fill it generously with the creamy seafood mixture.
2. If you have any leftover soup, you can serve it in small cups or extra bowls on the side.
3. Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Place the bread bowl on a plate and serve immediately. Enjoy the fun and delicious experience of scooping up the creamy seafood soup with the bread bowl.
2. You can also serve the bread lids on the side for dipping or crumbling over the top of the soup.

### Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl

– **Choose Fresh Seafood**: For the best flavor, try to use fresh seafood, or if using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. A mix of shrimp, crab, and scallops offers a nice variety of textures and flavors.

– **Use a Thickening Agent**: If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to add more flour or a cornstarch slurry. Just be sure to let it simmer long enough for the flavors to develop.

– **Customize the Seafood**: If you’re not a fan of certain seafood, feel free to swap in your favorites. You can even use canned clams or lobster if that’s what you have on hand.

– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables.

– **Use a Sturdy Bread**: Sourdough or French bread works best for this recipe because they have a sturdy crust that holds up well under the weight of the soup. Avoid soft sandwich loaves, as they can become soggy quickly.

– **Serve with Extra Bread**: If you have extra bread leftover from hollowing out the bread bowls, cut it into cubes and toast them to serve as croutons for extra crunch.

### Conclusion

The **Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl** is the perfect combination of indulgence and comfort. The creamy seafood soup served in a warm, crusty bread bowl is a treat for the senses, and the presentation is sure to wow your guests. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish is an unforgettable way to enjoy seafood in a whole new way.

With its rich flavors, fun presentation, and versatility, this soup will quickly become a go-to recipe for special occasions or any time you crave something extra special. Enjoy the soup, enjoy the bread, and enjoy the delightful flavors that come with this fantastic dish!