Oyster Cream Soup Recipe: A Seafood Delight in Every Spoonful
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the sea with this delectable Oyster Cream Soup recipe. Perfectly balancing the richness of oysters with the creaminess of milk and butter, this soup is a testament to comfort and elegance in every spoonful. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 cups fresh oysters, shucked and strained
- 1-2 dashes of Tabasco sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions:
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Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling gently, it’s time to infuse it with the aromatic flavors of the vegetables.
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Add the diced potato, carrot, celery, and onion to the saucepan. Allow them to sauté gently in the butter for approximately 3 minutes, or until they begin to soften and release their natural sweetness.
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Next, pour the freshly shucked oysters through a fine mesh strainer directly into the saucepan. This ensures that only the flavorful oyster liquor makes its way into the soup, adding depth and complexity to the broth.
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Follow up by adding the milk, heavy cream, and fresh thyme sprigs to the saucepan. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
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Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking or scorching on the bottom of the pan. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
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After 10 minutes, add the fresh oysters to the simmering soup. Cook them until their edges begin to curl, which should take about 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the oysters, as they can become tough and rubbery if cooked for too long.
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Once the oysters are cooked to perfection, it’s time to season the soup to taste. Add a dash or two of Tabasco sauce for a subtle kick of heat, and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the sea.
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To serve, ladle the piping hot Oyster Cream Soup into bowls, ensuring that each serving receives a generous portion of plump oysters and flavorful broth. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped chives for a pop of freshness and a scattering of crumbled bacon for an added layer of smoky richness.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 712.1
- Fat Content: 53.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 28.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 227.3mg
- Sodium Content: 504.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 31.6g
- Fiber Content: 2.1g
- Sugar Content: 2.2g
- Protein Content: 27.6g
Cook’s Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider using freshly shucked oysters rather than pre-packaged ones. The briny liquor from fresh oysters adds an unparalleled depth of flavor to the soup.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your personal preference. If you prefer a spicier soup, add more Tabasco sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the hot sauce altogether.
- Serve the Oyster Cream Soup with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side for a satisfying and complete meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth, while the crackers add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Conclusion:
With its creamy texture, delicate seafood flavor, and comforting warmth, this Oyster Cream Soup is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a starter for an elegant dinner party or as a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of homemade soups. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, don your apron, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the bounty of the sea.
