Prepare the Bisque Base:

• Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Sautéing the vegetables releases their flavors and creates a flavorful base, ensuring a rich bisque.
• Make the Roux: Stir in the flour, cooking for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. This will thicken the bisque and add a nutty flavor, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Cooking the roux ensures it doesn’t have a raw flour taste, preventing a grainy bisque.
• Add the Liquid: Gradually whisk in the seafood stock and wine (or additional stock), ensuring no lumps remain. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Whisking ensures a smooth bisque, preventing any lumps from forming.

Cook the Seafood:

• Season the Bisque: Stir in the smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Seasoning at this stage allows the flavors to meld, creating a harmonious blend.
• Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Cooking the shrimp ensures they are cooked through but not overcooked, preventing a rubbery texture.
• Add the Crab: Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break up the lumps too much. Adding the crab at the end preserves its texture, ensuring a delicate bite.

Finish the Bisque:

• Incorporate the Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing the bisque to heat through without boiling. Heating gently prevents the cream from curdling, ensuring a smooth and velvety bisque.
• Adjust Consistency: If the bisque is too thick, add more seafood stock, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. This ensures the bisque is smooth and creamy, catering to personal preference.

Serve:

• Garnish: Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, and a side of crusty bread or oyster crackers. Garnish adds visual appeal and enhances the flavors, creating a complete dining experience.