Creamed Prawn Soup

Creamed Prawn Soup Recipe from Belgium with Butter, Onion, and White Wine

Region / culture: Belgium | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Creamed prawn soup is a luxurious and creamy soup that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This soup is packed with flavor from fresh prawns, vegetables, and a touch of brandy. It is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

History

Creamed prawn soup has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. Prawns have long been a staple in coastal regions, and combining them with a creamy soup base creates a rich and satisfying dish. This recipe has been passed down through generations and continues to be a favorite among seafood lovers.

Ingredients

50 g/2 oz butter
1 onion, finely chopped
1 stick celery, finely chopped
1 leek, finely chopped
3 large tomatoes, chopped
450 g/1 lb large raw prawns (shrimps) in shell
1.1 liter/40 fl oz hot water
120 ml/4 fl oz dry white wine
1 bouquet garni
pepper
210 ml/7 fl oz cream
1 egg yolk
60 ml/2 fl oz brandy
25 g/1 oz flour

How to prepare

1. In a large saucepan, melt half of the butter. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté over low heat for about 10 minutes without browning.
2. Meanwhile, shell the prawns and set aside the shells and heads.
3. Add the prawn shells and heads to the vegetables. Pour in the hot water, wine, bouquet garni, and tomatoes. Season with pepper. Cover and simmer gently for one hour.
4. After the cooking time, strain the stock through a sieve into a large bowl. Press the shells and vegetables with a wooden spoon to extract as much juice as possible. Set aside.
5. In the same saucepan, melt the remaining butter. Add the flour and cook over medium heat, stirring to make a roux.
6. Gradually add the strained stock to the saucepan, stirring well between each addition. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 15 minutes.
7. In a small mixing bowl, beat together the egg yolk and cream. Set aside.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the egg mixture.
9. Add the prawns and brandy to the saucepan. Mix well. Return to very low heat and gently heat, stirring constantly, for 4-5 minutes until the soup slightly thickens and the prawns are cooked. Do not boil. Serve immediately.

Variations

Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Substitute the prawns with crab or lobster for a different flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to simmer the prawn shells and heads with the vegetables to extract as much flavor as possible for the stock.

- Gradually add the strained stock to the roux to prevent lumps from forming.

- Do not boil the soup once the prawns are added, as this can cause them to become tough.

- Serve the soup immediately to enjoy it at its best.

Serving Suggestions

Serve creamed prawn soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the vegetables until they are soft and fragrant.

- Simmer the prawn shells and heads with the stock to extract maximum flavor.

- Gradually add the stock to the roux to create a smooth and creamy soup base.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute coconut milk for cream for a dairy-free option.

- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Creamed prawn soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish creamed prawn soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of sour cream for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve creamed prawn soup with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover creamed prawn soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of creamed prawn soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of creamed prawn soup contains approximately 15g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of creamed prawn soup contains approximately 25g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of creamed prawn soup contains approximately 10g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamed prawn soup is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Creamed prawn soup is a rich and creamy dish that is high in fats and proteins. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those with shellfish, dairy, or gluten allergies.

Summary

Creamed prawn soup is a decadent and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipe cards that belonged to my mother. As I sifted through the worn and stained cards, I stumbled upon a faded index card with the words "Creamed Prawn Soup" scrawled across it in my mother's elegant handwriting.

I had never tried creamed prawn soup before, but the thought of it intrigued me. My mother had a knack for finding the most delicious and unique recipes, and I knew this one would be no exception. I could almost taste the rich, creamy broth and the tender prawns simmering together in perfect harmony.

Excited to try something new, I gathered all the ingredients listed on the card and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped onions, minced garlic, and sautéed prawns, the aroma of the ingredients filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I added a splash of white wine, a hint of paprika, and a generous dollop of cream, watching as the soup transformed into a velvety masterpiece.

When it was finally ready, I ladled the soup into a bowl and took my first spoonful. The flavors exploded on my taste buds – the sweetness of the prawns, the richness of the cream, and the subtle heat of the paprika all melded together in a symphony of deliciousness. I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

Over the years, I perfected my version of creamed prawn soup, tweaking the ingredients and proportions until it was just right. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its incredible flavor and velvety texture. It became a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish I turned to when I wanted to impress guests or simply treat myself to something special.

As I reflect on the journey of discovering this recipe, I am reminded of all the other culinary treasures I have collected over the years. From my grandmother's traditional meatloaf to my aunt's decadent chocolate cake, each recipe holds a special place in my heart, a connection to the past and a promise of delicious meals to come.

I am grateful for the joy that cooking has brought into my life, for the memories made around the dinner table, and for the countless hours spent experimenting in the kitchen. And as I continue to explore new recipes and flavors, I know that the discovery of creamed prawn soup was just the beginning of a lifelong love affair with food and all its wonders.