There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a creamy bowl of lobster bisque to transport you straight to a cozy seaside café. I vividly recall the first time I savored this decadent dish; the rich, velvety texture and hints of brandy and fresh herbs enveloped my senses, creating a culinary experience I couldn’t forget. Searching for the perfect recipe led me to this inspired creation, a delightful copycat of the beloved lobster bisque from Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
Imagine sitting down to a beautifully presented bowl of this luxurious bisque, its enticing aroma mingling with the scent of fresh chives. Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a comforting dinner at home, this recipe promises to impress without overwhelming you in the kitchen. With its perfect blend of flavors and straightforward steps, you’ll find this bisque not only elevates weeknight dining but also becomes a go-to favorite for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into this easy yet elegant recipe that’ll bring a taste of fine dining right to your table!
Why is The Best Lobster Bisque irresistible?
Luxurious Texture: The creamy consistency of this bisque wraps around your taste buds, offering a silky sensation with every spoonful.
Rich Flavor: The marriage of brandy, sherry, and fresh herbs creates a delectable depth that’s simply unmatched.
Effortless Elegance: You can whip up this gourmet dish at home without extensive cooking skills, making it feel like a special occasion every time.
Versatile Dining: Perfect for both intimate dinners or larger gatherings, this bisque is bound to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Quick Cooking: Though it tastes like a restaurant classic, the straightforward instructions mean you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Elevate your next meal with this extraordinary recipe that guarantees deliciousness!
The Best Lobster Bisque Ingredients
For the Soup
• 8 cups water – This serves as the base for boiling our lobster tails and infusing flavors.
• 3 small lobster tails or 2 large tails (approximately 12 ounces total) – Fresh lobster is the star ingredient, giving this bisque its delightful taste.
• Cool water – Enough to submerge cooked lobster tails for cooling.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – This adds depth and richness to the flavors when sautéing the shell.
• 1 medium onion, sliced (approximately 8 ounces) – Aromatic and sweet, it forms the foundation of the soup’s flavor.
• ½ cup sliced celery (approximately 1 large stalk) – Provides a subtle crunch and earthy notes.
• ½ cup sliced carrots (approximately 1 medium carrot) – Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 head garlic, peeled, cut in half crosswise – Infuses a delicious scent and robust flavor into the base.
• ¾ cup chopped red tomato (approximately 1 large tomato) – Gives the bisque a fresh, tangy taste and deep color.
For the Seasoning
• 2 sprigs fresh tarragon (optional) – Adds an herbaceous, slightly sweet flavor that elevates the bisque.
• 6 sprigs fresh thyme – Essential for aromatic depth, complementing the seafood beautifully.
• 2 large bay leaves – Imparts a subtle, earthy taste.
• ½ teaspoon whole black peppercorns – Freshly cracked pepper adds warmth and spice.
For the Liquids
• ½ cup brandy – A splash of this spirit enhances the bisque’s luxurious flavor profile.
• ½ cup sherry – This adds a sweet complexity and balances the richness.
• 2 cups bottled clam juice – Brings a briny, ocean-like essence to our bisque.
• 2 cups cooking liquid – Reserved from boiling lobster tails for optimal flavor.
• Lobster juices – Collected from chopping lobster meat and shells, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
For the Creaminess
• ¼ cup tomato paste – Thicken the bisque while deepening the tomato flavor.
• ½ cup whipping cream (at room temperature) – Provides that luscious, creamy texture we crave in a bisque.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps to thicken our bisque to perfection.
• 1 tablespoon cold water – Whisked with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening.
For the Finishing Touches
• ½ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste) – Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Freshly cracked black pepper – To taste, adding the perfect kick to each bowl.
• Chopped fresh chives (for garnish, optional) – These not only enhance the presentation but add a hint of onion flavor.
This gathering of ingredients ensures you’re on your way to creating The Best Lobster Bisque, a comforting yet sophisticated bowl of joy!
How to Make The Best Lobster Bisque
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Boil Water: Fill a large, heavy-bottomed pot with 8 cups of water over high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil, creating a warm base for our lobster tails.
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Cook Lobster: Carefully add the lobster tails once the water is boiling. Boil for about 5 minutes until fully cooked and bright red.
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Cool Lobster: Transfer the cooked lobster tails to a large bowl filled with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside until cool enough to handle.
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Reserve Liquid: While the lobster cools, scoop 2 cups of the cooking liquid into a medium bowl, capturing any loose lobster meat that may have released during boiling. Discard any extra cooking liquid.
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Extract Lobster Meat: Once cooled, crack the lobster tails open and remove the meat, chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Place the meat in a small bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, refrigerating until needed.
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Prepare Shells: Chop the lobster shells into large pieces, transferring them to a second bowl. Collect any juices that may have dripped onto the cutting board in a measuring cup.
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Sauté Shells: In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the lobster shell pieces and sauté for about 5 minutes until they darken and become fragrant.
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Add Aromatics: Introduce the sliced onion, celery, carrots, garlic, chopped tomato, tarragon, thyme, bay leaves, and black peppercorns to the pot. Stir well to combine.
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Deglaze with Liquor: Pour in the brandy and sherry, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until much of the liquid evaporates, enriching the flavor.
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Combine Liquids: Add the clam juice, reserved cooking liquid, and lobster juices to the pot. Stir everything together and reduce heat to medium, letting it come to a strong simmer for 15 minutes.
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Strain Mixture: Remove the pot from heat and strain the mixture into a large saucepan using a fine mesh sieve. Press down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible, then discard the solids.
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Incorporate Tomato Paste: Whisk in ¼ cup of tomato paste until fully incorporated, then simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes until the bisque reduces to around 3 cups.
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Cool for Later: If not serving immediately, transfer the bisque to an airtight container to cool completely and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat gently over low heat before continuing.
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Add Cream: Stir in ½ cup of room-temperature whipping cream and return to heat, simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
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Thicken Bisque: Whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Add this slurry to the soup, stirring to incorporate completely.
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Final Boil: Increase the heat to medium-high, bringing the soup to a boil again. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes until slightly thickened, enhancing the luxurious texture.
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Season to Taste: Taste the bisque and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the chopped lobster meat, allowing it to warm through for a few minutes.
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Serve: Ladle the bisque into serving bowls, garnishing with chopped chives if desired. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Optional: Pair your bisque with crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for The Best Lobster Bisque
Fridge: Store the bisque in an airtight container for up to 1 day to maintain optimal freshness. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze lobster bisque in freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months, but for the best quality, enjoy it sooner.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the bisque overnight in the fridge. Reheat slowly on the stovetop, stirring frequently, and avoid boiling.
Reheating: To retain its creamy texture, reheat the bisque over low to medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Enjoy this tantalizing bisque that brings fine dining right to your table!
What to Serve with The Best Lobster Bisque?
Crafting the perfect meal involves harmonizing flavors and textures, elevating your dining experience to something special.
- Crusty Baguette: A slice of freshly baked bread is perfect for dipping in this rich bisque, balancing luxurious creaminess with satisfying crunch.
- Mixed Green Salad: A bright salad with citrus vinaigrette introduces freshness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the bisque.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Serve alongside succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter to enhance the oceanic flavors, making for a delightful seafood combination.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay pairs beautifully, its lightness complementing the depth of the bisque without overpowering it.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon zest adds a refreshing touch, introducing a slight bitterness that plays off the sweetness of the lobster.
- Lemon Sorbet: End the meal with a light lemon sorbet; its tartness cleanses the palate beautifully, ensuring you savor every last bite of the bisque.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie and tangy bleu cheese enhances the meal’s luxury, creating an inviting conversation piece for guests.
These pairings bring varied textures, flavors, and a refreshing uplift to The Best Lobster Bisque, crafting a memorable dining experience that indulges the senses.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful bowls of The Best Lobster Bisque are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time on busy weeknights, you can prepare the base bisque up to 24 hours in advance. Begin by following the initial steps of the recipe and, once the soup has reduced, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate and simply reheat it over low heat before adding the whipping cream, cornstarch slurry, and lobster meat for finishing. This method ensures it retains its rich flavor and luxurious texture, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality bisque with minimal effort right at home!
Tips for the Best Lobster Bisque
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lobster tails for the best flavor. Frozen lobster can compromise the bisque’s quality, leading to a less flavorful experience.
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Deglaze Wisely: Be sure to let your brandy and sherry boil until most of the liquid evaporates. This step deepens the flavors and avoids a raw alcohol taste in your bisque.
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Strain Thoroughly: When straining the bisque mixture, press the solids firmly to capture every drop of flavor. Skipping this step means losing precious taste!
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Warm Cream: Incorporate room-temperature cream to avoid curdling when adding it to the hot bisque. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture throughout.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste your bisque before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to elevate the flavors of your lobster bisque to their best potential.
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Chill for Future: If not serving immediately, cool the bisque completely before refrigerating. This makes reheating the next day easy while retaining the deliciousness.
Lobster Bisque Variations
Feel free to explore different flavors and textures that suit your palate.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the whipping cream with coconut cream for a rich and dairy-free bisque that still feels indulgent.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños during the cooking process for an exciting warmth that balances the sweetness of the lobster.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika to introduce a subtle, smoky undertone that complements the seafood beautifully. This adds depth without overpowering the delicate soup.
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Seafood Medley: Mix in 1 cup of shrimp or scallops along with the lobster for a delightful seafood blend that elevates every spoonful with different textures.
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Herb Explosion: Experiment with fresh basil or dill alongside the thyme for a fresh herbal twist that brings out the bay’s natural flavors while adding brightness to the bisque.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the lobster with artichoke hearts and use vegetable broth instead of clam juice for a hearty veggie version that’s still full of flavor.
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Asian Fusion: Add a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flair that’ll take this classic bisque into exciting new territories.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving for a burst of brightness that cuts through the richness, invigorating the entire dish.
The Best Lobster Bisque Recipe FAQs
What type of lobster should I use for the bisque?
Absolutely! For the best lobster bisque, I recommend using fresh lobster tails. Look for tails that are bright in color and have a sweet, ocean-like scent. If fresh isn’t available, frozen lobster can work, but it may slightly affect the overall taste and texture of the bisque.
How long can I store Lobster Bisque in the fridge?
You can store your homemade lobster bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing. When ready to enjoy, reheat over low heat to maintain the creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Lobster Bisque?
Yes, you can freeze lobster bisque! To do so, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. For the best flavor and quality, I often recommend consuming it sooner rather than later.
How do I properly thaw and reheat frozen bisque?
To thaw, simply move the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it sit overnight. When you’re ready to reheat, pour it into a saucepan, warm it over low to medium heat while stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to keep that luscious creamy texture!
What if my bisque is too thick?
If your bisque turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Just add a bit more clam juice or water while reheating, stirring well until you achieve your preferred consistency. Remember, it’s all about finding that balance, so taste as you go!
Are there any dietary considerations for Lobster Bisque?
Yes, seafood allergies are common, so be mindful if you’re serving guests who may have sensitivities. You can make a vegetarian or vegan version by substituting the lobster with a blend of mushrooms and using vegetable broth. However, if you’re making this classic version, ensure that everyone at the table loves seafood!
Feel free to dive into this luxurious treat that truly transforms your dining experience!
The Best Lobster Bisque: Ruth’s Chris Copycat Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large, heavy-bottomed pot with 8 cups of water over high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Carefully add the lobster tails once the water is boiling. Boil for about 5 minutes until fully cooked and bright red.
- Transfer the cooked lobster tails to a large bowl filled with cool water to stop the cooking process.
- While the lobster cools, scoop 2 cups of the cooking liquid into a medium bowl, capturing any loose lobster meat.
- Once cooled, crack the lobster tails open and remove the meat, chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the lobster shells into large pieces, transferring them to a second bowl.
- In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lobster shell pieces and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced onion, celery, carrots, garlic, chopped tomato, tarragon, thyme, bay leaves, and black peppercorns to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the brandy and sherry, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until much of the liquid evaporates.
- Add the clam juice, reserved cooking liquid, and lobster juices to the pot. Stir everything together and reduce heat to medium.
- Remove the pot from heat and strain the mixture into a large saucepan using a fine mesh sieve. Press down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Whisk in ¼ cup of tomato paste until fully incorporated, then simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes until the bisque reduces to around 3 cups.
- If not serving immediately, transfer the bisque to an airtight container to cool completely and refrigerate.
- Stir in ½ cup of room-temperature whipping cream and return to heat, simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
- Whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Add this slurry to the soup, stirring to incorporate completely.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, bringing the soup to a boil again. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Taste the bisque and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the chopped lobster meat, allowing it to warm through.
- Ladle the bisque into serving bowls, garnishing with chopped chives if desired. Serve immediately.