Name: Silky Lobster Bisque With Cognac Crème Fraîche
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 10 oz lobster tails, chopped; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup crimini mushrooms, chopped; 2 large shallots, finely chopped; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1–2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 carrot, chopped; 2 tbsp cognac; 3–4 cups seafood or vegetable broth; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup crème fraîche; Additional cognac or fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

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Short Description

This lobster bisque is a luxurious and velvety soup made with tender lobster meat, butter‑sauteed aromatics, and a touch of cognac. Finished with crème fraîche for tang and richness, it’s perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich seafood flavor from lobster tails and complimentary vegetables
Earthy depth from crimini mushrooms and sweet shallots
Luxurious touch of cognac adds warmth and sophistication
Silky-smooth texture achieved with seamless blending and straining
Creamy finish from crème fraîche that blends tang and decadence

Ingredients

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

Soup Base:
• 10 oz lobster tails, chopped or shelled
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup crimini mushrooms, chopped
• 2 large shallots, finely chopped
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1–2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped

Liquid & Flavor Enhancers:
• Splash of cognac (about 2 tbsp)
• Seafood or vegetable broth (approx. 3–4 cups)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches:
• ½ cup crème fraîche
• Additional cognac or herbs for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics & Mushrooms

In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallots, onion, celery, carrot, and crimini mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are soft and aromatic—about 5–7 minutes.

2. Add Lobster & Deglaze

Add chopped lobster meat and sauté briefly until opaque. Pour in cognac and simmer for 1–2 minutes to let the alcohol evaporate.

3. Simmer The Bisque

Pour in your broth—enough to just cover the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes to blend flavors.

4. Blend & Strain

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until completely smooth. For extra silkiness, strain through a fine mesh sieve back into the pot, pressing solids gently.

5. Finish With Cream & Seasoning

Stir in crème fraîche until the bisque is rich and creamy. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or a splash more cognac if desired.

6. Serve With Style

Ladle into warmed bowls or a soup tureen. Garnish with a drizzle of cognac, fresh herbs (like chives or tarragon), or seared shrimp, if desired.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes

Variations

Use lobster shells and aromatics to simmer a more intense lobster stock
Substitute heavy cream for crème fraîche for richer body
Swap crimini mushrooms with shiitake or chanterelles for earthy complexity
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for gentle heat
Finish bowls with lobster tail pieces or seared scallops for a stunning effect

Storage/Reheating

Store bisque in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally
Crème fraîche may separate slightly when reheated—stir or whisk to reincorporate
Not ideal for freezing, as dairy separation may affect texture

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Lobster Tails?

Yes—thaw completely and pat dry before adding. Cook time remains the same.

Is Cognac Necessary?

Cognac adds a classic depth and aroma, but you can skip it or use brandy if preferred.

Do I Need An Immersion Blender?

It greatly simplifies the process, but a countertop blender works too (blend in batches, carefully).

Why Strain The Bisque?

Straining removes any grainy or fibrous bits, resulting in a silky, luxurious mouthfeel.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Yes—prepare bisque ahead and chill. Reheat gently and stir in crème fraîche just before serving.

What Can I Garnish With?

Fresh tarragon, chives, or microgreens add a pop of brightness. A swirl of cream or cognac drizzle elevates the presentation.

Can I Use Vegetable Stock Instead Of Seafood Broth?

Yes—seafood broth deepens flavor, but vegetable broth works well in a pinch.

Is There A Dairy-Free Option?

Substitute crème fraîche with a plant-based cream, though texture and flavor will vary.

How Do I Avoid Overcooking Lobster?

Add lobster early and simmer gently to avoid toughness. Finish blending once cooked.

Conclusion

Silky lobster bisque with cognac crème fraîche is an elegant, flavorful soup that brings culinary sophistication to your table. With layers of delicate lobster, earthy mushrooms, and rich aromatics, it’s balanced by luxurious cream and elevated with cognac. Serve it warm, garnish with finesse, and savor every velvety spoonful.