LOBSTER BISQUE

By JMGeorge

Ingredients

• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 2 tsp tomato paste
• 8 ounces unsalted butter
• 1-1/2 lbs Maine lobster
• 32 ounces water
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 cup dry sherry
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1

Steam lobster in water until done, about 8 minutes. Save stock. Remove lobster meat from shell; set aside. Break up lobster shells, then place them back into the water; simmer over low heat until reduced by half.
Heat half the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add shallots, garlic and celery and saute until soft, about 10 minutes.
Add bay leaf, tomato paste and sherry and simmer for 10 minutes or until reduced by half.
Add cream and lobster stock and simmer over low heat (Do not boil.) for 30 to 40 minutes or until soup begins to thicken.
Season with salt and pepper. Remove lobster shells and bay leaves. Chop up lobster meat and add to bisque. Stir in remaining butter.
Serve hot with a little crème fraiche and fresh chives.