Description
Lobster soup is the epitome of culinary luxury, transforming any meal into a fine dining experience. This rich and creamy French delicacy harmoniously blends the sweet, tender meat of fresh lobsters with aromatic vegetables, a splash of brandy, and a luscious finishing touch of cream. Ideal for special occasions or an intimate dinner at home, this lobster soup is sure to impress your guests with its gourmet flair while remaining surprisingly achievable. With its depth of flavor and impressive presentation, you’ll elevate your cooking repertoire and make lasting memories around the table.
Ingredients
- 4 live lobsters (1¼ pounds each)
- 4 ounces unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 yellow onions, diced
- 4 celery ribs, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¼ cup brandy
- 1 cup dry white apple vinegar
- 5 cups chicken stock
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, tarragon)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, cayenne pepper)
Instructions
- Prepare lobsters by humanely killing them and removing tails and claws. Steam tails for 2½ minutes and claws for 3 minutes; reserve shells.
- In a large pot, brown reserved lobster shells in butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add diced carrots, onions, celery, garlic, and tomato paste; stir well.
- Deglaze with brandy and vinegar before adding lobster liquid from steaming along with chicken stock and bay leaf. Bring to a boil then simmer uncovered for one hour.
- Strain the broth into a clean pot to remove solids. Blend with sautéed vegetables until smooth; strain again if necessary.
- Season the soup to taste and sauté reserved lobster meat in butter until heated through. Serve hot topped with sautéed lobster meat and garnished with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, use fresh lobsters rather than frozen. Adjust seasonings gradually while tasting to achieve a perfect balance. Consider adding lemon juice or additional herbs for brightness.