NEW ORLEANS CORN & SHRIMP SOUP

Steps:

• Rinse shrimp in cool water then peel and save shells.
• In large pot place shrimp shells, 2 quarts of water and quartered onion and bring to a boil, gently boiling shells.
• Continue boiling until you end up with about 2 cups of stock (at least 45 minutes).
• Strain the stock into a bowl, discard shells and onion and set aside.
• In large heavy dutch oven melt butter over medium heat and saute the onions, green onion, celery, bell pepper and garlic until vegetables are soft being careful not to burn.
• Reduce the fire to low and add the shrimp cooking until pink, about 3 minutes (no more-do not overcook).
• Remove the mixture from the dutch oven and separate into 2 equal portions.
• Set one portion aside and run the other portion through the food processor until it is finely shredded (not pasty).
• Pour reserved shrimp stock in the dutch oven and add the shredded shrimp/vegetable mixture, whipping cream and whole milk.
• Mix well, turn heat to medium high bring to a gentle boil and stir uncovered for about 3 minutes.
• Add the creamed corn and crumbled bacon (or tasso), mixing well and cook for another 4 minutes.
• As it is simmering add the basil, salt, white pepper, black pepper, cayenne and tabasco.
• Next add the reserved whole shrimp (the unshredded portion), mixing well.
• Cover the dutch oven and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes.
• Place in serving bowls and garnish with cilantro.