Introduction

When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something warm and comforting, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of rich, creamy soup. And when that soup is brimming with tender, succulent shrimp, it becomes an indulgent treat that feels like a big, cozy hug. This Creamy Shrimp Soup recipe delivers all that and more – a velvety smooth broth that’s lusciously thick and studded with plump, perfectly cooked shrimp in every spoonful.

Ingredients

To make this delightful shrimp soup, you’ll need:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 4 cups seafood stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Flavors and Textures

The beauty of this soup is how the delicate, slightly sweet flavor of the shrimp shines through and is complemented by the savory, aromatic vegetables and herbs. Onion, celery and garlic create a flavorful base, while a splash of white wine adds a touch of brightness and acidity. Thyme lends an earthy, woodsy note that pairs beautifully with the briny seafood.

But the real star is the cream, which transforms the broth into something luxurious and decadent. A generous pour of heavy cream is tempered by the seafood stock, resulting in a soup that is rich but still light enough to enjoy as a starter or main course. The cream also helps to thicken the soup, giving it a satisfying heartiness and body.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the onion, celery and garlic in butter until tender.
2. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Deglaze the pan with white wine.
4. Pour in seafood stock and simmer until thickened.
5. Add the raw shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.
6. Stir in heavy cream and heat through gently.
7. Season with salt, pepper and thyme to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy shrimp soup is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Serve it as an elegant starter for a dinner party or enjoy a big comforting bowl as a main course. It pairs well with a crisp white wine and some crusty bread for dipping. You can also customize the soup by adding other seafood like crab or scallops, or vegetables like diced potato or corn. However you enjoy it, this creamy shrimp soup is sure to warm you up and make you feel indulged. Give it a try and taste the magic for yourself!