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Lemon Bisque Recipe
Aldrick Winters

Lemon Bisque Recipe

Lemon bisque is a smooth, creamy soup with a bright citrus flavor balanced by butter and cream. The texture is velvety and light, making it perfect as a starter for seafood dinners or elegant spring meals. Its refreshing lemon notes add a unique twist to classic bisque.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: French
Calories: 260

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small shallot finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional for richness
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Blender or immersion blender
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until melted and lightly bubbling.
  2. Add the chopped shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant but not browned.
  3. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a light roux with a smooth paste-like texture.
  4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring until the soup becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
  6. Blend the soup with an immersion blender until velvety smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender and blend in batches.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper, then simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the soup is hot and creamy.
  8. Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor; bottled juice can taste slightly
  • bitter.
  • If the bisque becomes too thick, add a splash of warm broth to adjust the
  • consistency.
  • Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for a simple but elegant meal.