Lobster Bisque

Name: Lobster Bisque
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Ingredients; 2 lobster tails (about 1 lb total); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 celery stalk, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/4 cup brandy or cognac; 3 cups seafood or chicken stock; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 2 tablespoons water (optional, for cornstarch slurry); 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)