Creamy Shrimp Bisque Soup A Hug in a Bowl - Taste Dessert

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) large shrimp, shells and heads (if available) reserved, shrimp meat set aside
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 2 carrots, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 6 cups (1.4 liters) water
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 4 tablespoons (60ml) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 4 cups (950ml) shrimp stock (from above)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60ml) dry sherry (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Reserved cooked shrimp meat, chopped (from above)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)