Simplified Lobster Bisque

Ingredients

• • 2 lobsters, each about 1 ½ to 1 ¾ lb (675 to 800 g), cooked (see note)
  • ¼ cup (55 g) butter
  • 1 large white onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) tomato paste
  • 1/3 cup (50 g) unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup (75 ml) brandy or cognac
  • 8 cups (2 litres) water
  • 4 cups (1 litre) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (250 ml) white wine
  • 2 tsp black peppercorns, coarsely crushed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 thyme sprig, plus more for serving
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • ½ cup (125 ml) 35% cream, plus more for serving