Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl
This dish is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and creativity. With its rich, creamy soup and crusty sourdough bread bowl, this recipe is a show-stopper perfect for cozy nights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds depth of flavor and helps sauté the vegetables.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the soup.
- 1 small onion, finely diced 🧅: Provides aromatic sweetness.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄: Bold, savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup base.
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth 🥣: Forms the liquid foundation.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For a creamy texture.
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined 🦐: Tender and juicy seafood bites.
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat 🦀: Sweet, delicate seafood flavor.
- 1/2 lb clams, cooked and shelled (optional): Adds a briny, oceanic note.
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): A touch of heat.
- Salt and pepper, to taste.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice 🍋: For brightness and balance.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 🌿: Garnish and freshness.
For the Bread Bowls
- 4 large sourdough bread bowls: Sturdy, flavorful vessels for the soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing): Helps crisp and brown the bread.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the top off each sourdough loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving a thick shell to hold the soup.
- Brush the inside and edges of each bread bowl lightly with olive oil.
- Place the bread bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Soup Base
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour into the pot, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 3: Build the Soup
- Gradually whisk in the seafood or chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Seafood
- Gently add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Stir in the crab meat and clams (if using) and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
- Finish with lemon juice, parsley, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Serve in Bread Bowls
- Ladle the hot soup into the prepared sourdough bread bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for presentation.
- Serve immediately, pairing with the hollowed-out bread pieces for dipping.
Tips, Swaps, and Variations
Tips
- Toasting the bread bowls prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Add vegetables like corn, celery, or carrots for extra heartiness.
Swaps
- Substitute sourdough with other crusty bread, such as ciabatta.
- Use canned coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne or add diced jalapeños.
- Seafood Mix: Add scallops or white fish for variety.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Replace parsley with dill or thyme.
Why You’ll Love It
- Impressive Presentation: The bread bowl adds a rustic, restaurant-quality touch.
- Customizable: Adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.
- Comfort in Every Bite: Perfectly creamy and packed with seafood goodness.
Serve up this hearty Stuffed Seafood Soup Bread Bowl, and let every bite transport you to coastal culinary bliss! 🌊🍞🦐