New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Name: New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: New Orleans
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 4 cups seafood or chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup diced bell pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Craving a comforting and delicious dish that’s packed with flavor? New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is the perfect answer. Combining tender shrimp, sweet corn, and rich cream, this Southern classic brings a touch of New Orleans magic to your dinner table. Not only is this bisque creamy and savory, but it’s also simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. Let’s dive into how you can create this unforgettable meal, along with some tips, nutrition facts, and commonly asked questions.

What is New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque?

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is a creamy, hearty soup that’s deeply rooted in Southern cuisine. Bisques are traditionally rich, thick soups, often made with seafood and cream, and this New Orleans twist brings an irresistible combination of fresh shrimp and sweet corn. Perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika and optional cayenne pepper, this bisque delivers a mild heat that can be adjusted based on your preference. It’s a warm, cozy meal that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients for New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering bisque:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

4 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup diced bell pepper

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Each ingredient in this dish works harmoniously to create a bisque that’s full of layers of flavor. The sweet corn adds a natural sweetness, while the smoked paprika gives it a subtle smokiness.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to enhance the flavor.

2. Prepare the Roux

Next, you’ll create a roux, which acts as a thickening agent for the bisque. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly browned. This process ensures the roux is smooth and free of lumps.

3. Add the Broth and Seasonings

Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken broth, stirring as you go to blend the roux with the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir in the corn kernels, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you prefer a spicier bisque), salt, and black pepper. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the corn to soften.

4. Finish with Cream and Shrimp

Once the bisque has simmered, stir in the heavy cream to add richness. Then, add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become tough.

5. Serve and Garnish

Your New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is ready! Ladle the bisque into bowls, then garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of this Southern classic.

Tips for Making the Perfect Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Here are a few tips to help you make the best New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque possible:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

While frozen shrimp and corn can work in a pinch, using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavors of your bisque. Fresh shrimp and corn bring out the natural sweetness and tenderness in the dish.

2. Adjust the Heat

If you’re a fan of spicy food, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the cayenne entirely.

3. Thicken the Bisque

If you find that your bisque isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can blend part of the soup to create a smoother consistency. Simply use an immersion blender or transfer some of the bisque to a blender, then mix it back in with the rest of the soup.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Wondering how this bisque fits into your daily nutrition goals? Here’s a breakdown of the nutrients:

Nutrition Details

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 320

Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 170mg
Sodium: 980mg

Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Vitamin A: 15%

Calcium: 10%
Iron: 8%

Health Benefits

Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that’s packed with nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12, making it a great option for a balanced diet. Additionally, corn is a rich source of fiber, which aids in digestion, while the use of cream provides healthy fats that keep you feeling full and satisfied. This bisque is not only comforting but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

FAQs

Can I make the bisque ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Can I freeze this bisque?

While you can freeze the bisque, it’s important to note that the texture may change slightly due to the cream. If you plan to freeze it, we recommend freezing the bisque before adding the cream and shrimp. Once reheated, add the cream and shrimp fresh.

What can I serve with the bisque?

This bisque pairs perfectly with crusty French bread or cornbread. A light, tangy salad is also a great accompaniment to balance the creaminess of the bisque.

Is this bisque gluten-free?

As written, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the flour used to make the roux. However, you can easily substitute the flour with cornstarch or another gluten-free thickening agent to make the bisque gluten-free.

Can I substitute the shrimp?

Yes, if shrimp isn’t your thing, you can substitute it with crab, lobster, or even a firm white fish like cod. These seafood options still provide a rich flavor that complements the corn and cream.

Wrapping It Up

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is the ultimate comfort food, delivering rich and creamy flavors with every spoonful. The combination of shrimp and corn, along with flavorful seasonings like smoked paprika, creates a bisque that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

With its roots in Southern cuisine, this bisque embodies the spirit of New Orleans—bold, vibrant, and full of flavor. So why not bring a taste of the South to your kitchen tonight?

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