Shrimp Bisque

Name: Shrimp Bisque
Yield: Makes 4 servings
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3/4 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, shells reserved; 1 bay leaf; 4 cups water; 1/2 medium onion, finely diced; 1 celery rib, finely diced; 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled; 1/2 cup dry Sherry; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups half-and-half, heated until hot; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons sweet paprika; 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg

November 7, 2012

When developing this recipe, Epicurious member Joan Higgins of Pearl River, New York, decided to use extra shrimp to make sure that her diners had a piece of shrimp with each spoonful. The bisque’s base is indulgent, too—half-and-half infused with earthy nutmeg and enlivened with paprika. Even with its deep flavor and silky texture, Higgins says the best thing about this recipe is that it’s foolproof.

Recipe notes

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.