Lobster Bisque

lobster_bisque

Jamaica is known for its rich and diverse culinary scene, and Jamaican Lobster Bisque is a classic Caribbean dish that never fails to impress. This fragrant, velvety soup is packed with Caribbean flavours and delivers a taste that is truly unique to the region. The bisque is made with fresh, succulent lobster meat, which provides an intense and rich flavour with every spoonful. Over the years, this rich and creamy soup has become a staple in Jamaican households and is now enjoyed all over the world.

Lobster bisque is a popular seafood dish that originated in France in the 18th century. It was considered a luxurious dish, made only for the wealthiest members of society because of the high cost of lobster. However, as the popularity of lobster grew, people experimented with using it in other recipes such as bisque, which soon became a delicacy enjoyed by many. In Jamaica, lobster bisque has become an important part of the country’s culinary culture, with a distinct and uniquely Jamaican flavour.

Jamaican Lobster Bisque is the perfect blend of Caribbean flavours, and it is a great way to showcase the Jamaican cuisine’s diversity. The soup is made with a blend of spices that are commonly used in Jamaican cuisine, including garlic, thyme, and scallions. The lobster meat is cooked in a broth made from vegetables and herbs, which is then blended with coconut milk to give it a smooth and creamy texture. To add an extra kick, Jamaican hot sauce or Scotch bonnet peppers are often used, giving the bisque a fantastic heat.

The key to making Jamaican Lobster Bisque is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The lobster should be as fresh as possible, and it should be cooked just before making the soup to impart the best flavour. The spices used in the soup should be freshly ground, giving the soup a potent flavour. Ideally, the soup should be made with whole lobster, but the lobster tails can also be used.

Jamaican Lobster Bisque is an excellent starter or main course and can be served with crispy bread, crackers or toasted croutons. The soup can also be garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to enhance the presentation and add depth to the flavour. Lobster Bisque can also be made in large batches and frozen, so it is always available when the cravings strike.

In conclusion, Jamaican Lobster Bisque is a decadent and delicious soup that is a must-try for seafood lovers. The combination of spices, vegetables, and coconut milk creates a rich and complex flavour profile with a slight heat that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you are serving it up for a festive occasion or a cosy night in, Jamaican Lobster Bisque is an elegant and flavourful way to showcase the best of Caribbean cuisine.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium-sized lobsters
  • 4 cups of seafood broth
  • 1 cup of coconut milk
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp Jamaican curry powder
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Start by grilling the lobsters for 6-8 minutes until they are fully cooked. Remove the meat from the shells and chop coarsely. Set aside.

  2. In a large soup pot over medium heat, add the butter, olive oil, onion, garlic, ginger, and curry powder. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent.

  3. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until well incorporated.

  4. Add the seafood broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.

  5. Add the chopped lobster meat to the pot and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.

  6. Add the coconut milk and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes.

  7. Remove the pot from the heat and allow to cool slightly.

  8. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until it’s smooth and creamy.

  9. Return the soup to the pot and bring back to a low simmer. Add salt, pepper, and fresh thyme to taste.

  10. If you prefer a creamier soup, add the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes.

  11. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Jamaican Lobster Bisque!