Maryland Fire-Grilled Tomato Crab Bisque

Introduction

Enjoy a rich and flavorful Maryland-style fire-grilled tomato crab bisque with the perfect smoky depth. Fire-roasting the tomatoes on the grill enhances their sweetness and infuses them with a subtle char, creating a luxurious soup with fresh crab and cream. Cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill, this bisque is smooth, velvety, and packed with bold, satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

• 6 large ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup lump crab meat
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups seafood stock
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oil-soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Allow the grill to fully heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Fire-roast the tomatoes

1. Place the whole tomatoes directly on the flat cooktop near the center for a high-heat sear.
2. Turn them occasionally until the skins are charred and blistered.
3. Move them to a cooler zone to cook until soft, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove the tomatoes and allow them to cool before peeling.

Step 3: Sauté the aromatics

1. Add butter to the flat cooktop.
2. Once melted, add chopped onions and garlic.
3. Sauté until soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Blend and cook the bisque

1. Chop the fire-roasted tomatoes and add them back onto the griddle.
2. Use a spatula to mash them down for a thicker consistency.
3. Gradually mix in the seafood stock.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and spices.
5. Simmer the bisque on the cooler side of the griddle for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add the crab and final touches

1. Gently fold in the lump crab meat.
2. Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the crab is warmed through.
3. Finish with lemon juice and stir well.
4. Remove from the grill and ladle into bowls.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

• For a silky smooth texture, use an immersion blender right on the griddle.
• Adjust seasoning based on taste preference.
• Use butter for the best flavor when grilling.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Bisque: Add extra cayenne and a touch of hot sauce for a bold kick.
2. Herb-Infused Bisque: Add thyme and basil while simmering for a more fragrant soup.
3. Smoky Chipotle Bisque: Blend in one chopped chipotle pepper for deeper smokiness.
4. Cheesy Crab Bisque: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar for added creaminess.
5. Coconut Crab Bisque: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sourdough bread
• Fresh garden salad with citrus vinaigrette
• Chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc

Conclusion

Maryland Fire-Grilled Tomato Crab Bisque is the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory. With the Arteflame grill, every ingredient is cooked to perfection, enhancing the dish’s depth and richness. Try this recipe and enjoy fire-grilled flavor in every creamy spoonful.