Follow these easy steps to create a delicious lobster bisque from scratch:

1. Prepare the Lobsters: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add lobsters and cook for about 8-10 minutes until bright red. Remove and let them cool.
2. Extract the Meat: Once cooled, remove the lobster meat from the shell. Chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Reserve the shells for making the broth.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, shallots, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes to develop the flavor.
5. Deglaze with Brandy: If using, pour in the brandy, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Add Lobster Shells: Add the reserved lobster shells to the pot. Pour in the fish stock, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Strain the Broth: After simmering, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot, discarding the solids. Return the strained broth to the heat.
8. Incorporate Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired.
9. Reintroduce Lobster Meat: Add the chopped lobster meat to the bisque. Heat gently until the meat is warmed through.
10. Serve: Ladle the bisque into bowls, garnishing with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color.

Following these simple steps will guide you to create an amazing lobster bisque that will impress anyone who tastes it.