Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent Langostino Lobster Bisque is a luxurious and creamy soup featuring the tender, sweet meat of langostino tails. It delivers the rich flavor of traditional lobster bisque with a quicker, more affordable twist. Perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners, this velvety bisque offers gourmet elegance without the hassle of whole lobsters.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

langostino tail meat (cooked and thawed if frozen)butterolive oilshallotsgarliccarrotscelerytomato pasteall-purpose flourdry white wineshellfish or seafood stockheavy creambay leavesthymepaprikasaltblack peppercayenne (optional for heat)fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.

Add finely chopped shallots, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance its flavor.

Sprinkle in the flour and stir to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the white wine, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Add the shellfish or seafood stock, bay leaf, thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.

Return to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.

Add the langostino tail meat and simmer gently for 5 minutes until heated through.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of brandy or sherry for depth of flavor.

Use lobster or shrimp if langostino is unavailable.

Blend in roasted red peppers for a different twist.

Top with a swirl of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

Serve with crusty bread or puff pastry rounds for extra indulgence.

storage/reheating

Store bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to avoid curdling.Do not boil after adding cream to preserve its smooth texture.For longer storage, freeze without the cream and add it when reheating.

FAQs

What are langostinos?

Langostinos are small shellfish with a taste and texture similar to lobster, but technically more related to crabs and shrimp.

Can I make this bisque ahead of time?

Yes, make it up to the point before adding the cream. Add cream and langostino when reheating.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux.

Can I use frozen langostino?

Yes, just make sure they’re thawed and well-drained before adding to the soup.

What wine works best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is ideal.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can substitute coconut cream, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Why blend the soup?

Blending creates the smooth, creamy texture that defines a bisque.

Can I add vegetables?

You can, but keep them finely chopped or puréed to maintain the bisque’s silky consistency.

Is it spicy?

Only slightly if cayenne is added. You can omit it for a milder version.

Can I serve it chilled?

This bisque is best enjoyed warm, though a cold version can work as a unique summer dish.

Conclusion

Decadent Langostino Lobster Bisque offers rich seafood flavor in a silky, luxurious soup that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether for a romantic dinner, holiday meal, or elegant starter, this bisque is sure to impress with every velvety spoonful.