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This New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque brings me back to my favorite memories in Louisiana. After countless attempts to recreate that perfect balance of seafood and spice I finally mastered this recipe. The combination of plump shrimp sweet corn and that velvety broth seasoned just right creates pure magic in every spoonful. It's become my go to dish when I want to treat my family to something truly special.
What Makes This Bisque Special
The secret lies in building layers of flavor starting with a proper roux and homemade shrimp stock. Each time I serve this bisque guests ask for the recipe amazed at how restaurant quality it tastes. I love that I can make it ahead for dinner parties and it actually tastes even better the next day.
Essential Ingredients
Start with fresh Gulf shrimp if you can find them save those shells for stock they're gold. Good quality bacon adds depth crisp it until it's perfect. The trinity of onions bell peppers and celery creates that classic Cajun base while fresh corn adds natural sweetness. Heavy cream butter and flour work together for that silky texture. My secret weapon is a splash of sherry it brightens everything beautifully.
Creating Your Bisque
Begin by crisping your bacon then cooking down the trinity in those lovely drippings. The roux needs patience let it develop color and flavor. Add your warm stock slowly whisking until smooth. Once everything simmers together the magic happens shrimp and corn go in last to keep them tender and sweet. Fresh herbs at the end brighten all those deep flavors.
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Kitchen Secrets
Take time to make that shrimp stock it makes all the difference. If using corn cobs simmer them in the stock for extra sweetness. Always warm your stock and cream before adding them to the roux it prevents lumps and speeds up cooking. Fresh herbs go in stages early for depth final addition for brightness.
Keep It Fresh
This bisque keeps beautifully in the fridge for a few days just reheat it gently. When freezing portions I label them clearly with the date. Warm it slowly on the stovetop never let it boil you want those shrimp to stay tender and perfect.
Serving Your Creation
I love serving this bisque with warm crusty bread for soaking up every drop. A light salad on the side balances the richness perfectly. For special occasions I'll add some roasted vegetables or traditional New Orleans sides to make it a complete feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before seasoning. Fresh shrimp is preferred but good quality frozen shrimp works well.
- → What's the best way to store leftovers?
Cool quickly in smaller containers then refrigerate up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, warm gently on stovetop to prevent shrimp from becoming tough.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Make base through step 6, cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat and add corn, raw shrimp and cream to finish. This keeps shrimp tender.
- → What size shrimp works best?
Medium shrimp (41/50 count) are ideal. If using larger shrimp, cut into bite-sized pieces before cooking.
- → Can I freeze this bisque?
Yes, store in freezer-safe container up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge and reheat gently to prevent cream from separating.
Conclusion
A luxurious New Orleans bisque combining tender shrimp and sweet corn in a creamy, bacon-enriched broth. Perfect as an elegant starter or main course.