Indulge in a luxurious bowl of Creamy Scallop and Bacon Bisque, a delightful combination of tender sea scallops, crispy bacon, and a rich, velvety broth. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this bisque is sure to impress with its sophisticated flavors and comforting texture.
Ingredients
• 1 lb sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
• Crusty bread (for serving)
Directions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour.
5. Gradually pour in the seafood or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, prepare the scallops. Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Pat dry the scallops again and season with salt and pepper.
9. Sear the scallops in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
10. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the bisque until smooth and creamy.
11. Stir in the cooked bacon pieces.
12. To serve, ladle the bisque into bowls. Top each bowl with seared scallops and chopped fresh chives. Serve with crusty bread on the side.
Additional Details
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Kcal per Serving: 450 kcal
• Servings: 4 servings
Tips
• For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the skillet used for searing the scallops with a splash of white wine, then add the drippings to the bisque.
• If you prefer a thicker bisque, add an additional tablespoon of flour during the cooking process.
Benefits
• High Protein: Scallops are a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Omega-3: The bisque provides a good dose of omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.
• Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy texture and savory flavors make this dish a comforting and satisfying meal.
FAQs
Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?
Yes, bay scallops can be used, but they are smaller and will cook faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this bisque ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bisque up to the point of blending and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and add the seared scallops and bacon just before serving.
What can I use instead of an immersion blender?
A regular blender works well. Blend the bisque in batches, ensuring not to overfill the blender to avoid spills.
Conclusion
Creamy Scallop and Bacon Bisque is a dish that brings together the best of the ocean and the comforting flavors of a classic bisque. With its rich, creamy texture, savory bacon, and perfectly seared scallops, this bisque is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish promises to deliver a gourmet experience with every spoonful. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of fresh chives for an elegant touch. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.