1️⃣ In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot, and cook until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. 🥘

2️⃣ Mix in the tomato paste, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to deepen the flavors. 🍅🌶️

3️⃣ Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir until the flour is fully incorporated. Cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste. 🌾

4️⃣ Gradually pour in the broth while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. 🍲

5️⃣ With an immersion blender or in batches with a standard blender, puree the soup until smooth. Return to the pot if using a standard blender. 🥄

6️⃣ Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer the bisque for another 10 minutes, until it starts to thicken slightly. 🥛

7️⃣ Add the cooked crab meat and shrimp to the bisque. If using sherry, add it at this time. Cook for 5 minutes or until the seafood is heated through. Be sure to maintain a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from curdling. 🦀🍤

8️⃣ Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed. 🧂

9️⃣ Ladle the bisque into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately. 🍲🌿

Enjoy this rich and creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque as a treat to warm you up on chilly days or to make an ordinary day feel extraordinary! 😊