Crab and Shrimp Cassolette with Cream Recipe
Introduction: A Cassolette is a French dish typically cooked and served in small individual casseroles often featuring rich creamy ingredients. The Crab and Shrimp Cassolette is a delectable seafood dish that combines the sweet delicate flavors of crab and shrimp with a luxurious creamy sauce. It’s a perfect appetizer or main course for seafood lovers offering a delicate balance of textures and flavors. The dish is made even more indulgent with the addition of white wine herbs and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a gourmet meal this cassolette is sure to impress.
Time:Total
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the filling:
200g crab meat (fresh or canned)
200g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
150ml dry white wine
200ml heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for a slight smoky fla For the topping vor)
For the topping:
1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or Parmesan)
1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs (preferably homemade or panko for a crunchier topping)
1 tablespoon butter melted
Instructions:
Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
Once cooled slightly chop the shrimp into small pieces.
Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pan add the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté the onion until softened about 4-5 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Deglaze and Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes allowing the alcohol to cook off and the wine to reduce slightly.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard and paprika (if using).
Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens. Season with salt pepper and lemon juice.
Combine the Seafood:
Add the chopped shrimp and crab meat to the cream sauce and stir gently to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to ensure the seafood is well coated in the sauce and heated through.
Stir in the chopped parsley for added freshness.
Assemble the Cassolette:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Spoon the crab and shrimp mixture into small individual ramekins or cassolette dishes.
Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl mix the grated cheese breadcrumbs and melted butter.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the top of each cassolette.
Bake:
Place the ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Once baked remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or additional lemon wedges if desired.
To conclude Crab and Shrimp Cassolette with cream is a rich and indulgent seafood dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious dinner at home. The combination of tender crab and shrimp in a creamy flavorful sauce makes it both satisfying and elegant. Baking it in individual ramekins ensures that each serving is perfectly cooked with a golden slightly crispy top. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. The creamy texture savory seafood flavors and subtle seasoning make this cassolette a delightful and memorable meal. Enjoy!
Nutrition (approximate per serving):
Calories: 350-450 kcal (depending on portion size and specific ingredients used)
Protein: 25-30g
Fat: 25-30g
Carbohydrates: 8-12g
Fiber: 1-2g
Sugar: 2-4g
Cholesterol: 150-200mg
Sodium: 600-800mg
Enjoy your luxurious seafood cassolette a creamy and indulgent treat that brings the best of the sea to your table!