Here’s a hearty and creamy Seafood Chowder recipe that combines the richness of seafood with a velvety, comforting broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this chowder is packed with shrimp, fish, and vegetables in a creamy base!
🦞 Seafood Chowder Recipe
🦑 Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fish stock or vegetable broth (you can use chicken broth too)
- 1 1/2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a richer version)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup firm white fish (like cod or haddock), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup scallops (optional, or more shrimp or fish)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and potatoes, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. - Add Garlic & Seasonings:
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. - Add Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the fish stock or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. - Add Dairy & Corn:
Stir in the milk (or half-and-half) and heavy cream (if using) for a creamy texture. Add the corn kernels and bring the chowder back to a simmer. - Add the Seafood:
Gently add the shrimp, fish, and scallops (if using). Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the seafood is cooked through and the flavors have melded together. - Taste & Adjust:
Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if needed. If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash a few of the potatoes in the soup or stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water. - Serve:
Remove the bay leaf and discard. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Tips:
- For a thicker chowder: You can create a roux (a mixture of flour and butter) and stir it in before adding the broth, or blend part of the chowder in a blender for a creamier texture.
- Add bacon: For extra flavor, you can top the chowder with crispy bacon bits.
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
This Seafood Chowder is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for colder months or when you’re craving something hearty. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Would you like any side dish ideas to go with this chowder?