Creamy Seafood Chowder: Easy Comfort Dinner for Seafood Lovers
Introduction
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our creamy seafood chowder. This luxurious dish combines the bounty of the sea with a velvety base, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a cozy coastal kitchen. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving a taste of the ocean, this easy creamy seafood chowder recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This chowder is the epitome of comfort food, blending rich flavors with easy preparation. It’s ideal for:
◾ Seafood enthusiasts looking for a hearty meal
◾ Busy cooks who want a quick yet impressive dinner
◾ Those seeking a warming dish on cold nights
◾ Anyone wanting to elevate their soup game with minimal effort
Ingredients List
◾ 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and white fish)
◾ 4 slices bacon, diced
◾ 1 onion, finely chopped
◾ 2 celery stalks, diced
◾ 2 carrots, diced
◾ 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
◾ 2 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 4 cups fish or vegetable stock
◾ 1 cup heavy cream
◾ 2 bay leaves
◾ 1 tsp thyme
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ 2 tbsp butter
◾ 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
◾ Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot. Add the onion, celery, and carrots to the pot, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the butter to the empty space. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Gradually pour in the fish stock, whisking constantly to incorporate the roux. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Incorporate Seafood and Cream
Add the mixed seafood and heavy cream to the pot. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until the seafood is cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the seafood to maintain its tender texture.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Nutritional Information
This creamy seafood chowder is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals from the seafood and vegetables.
Calories per Person
Approximately 450-500 calories per serving.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this dish lighter:
◾ Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
◾ Substitute some potatoes with cauliflower
◾ Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon
◾ Increase the vegetable content for added fiber
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder with:
◾ A crisp green salad
◾ Whole grain crusty bread
◾ A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
◾ Oyster crackers or croutons for added crunch
Common Mistakes to Avoid
◾ Overcooking the seafood, which can make it tough
◾ Boiling the chowder after adding cream, which may cause curdling
◾ Under-seasoning – seafood shines with proper seasoning
◾ Rushing the base flavors – allow time for the vegetables to soften and meld
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing as dairy-based soups can separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for this chowder?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Thaw it completely before adding to the chowder and adjust cooking time as needed.
How can I thicken the chowder if it’s too thin?
Make a slurry with equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then slowly stir into the simmering chowder until desired thickness is achieved.
Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream with coconut milk and use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover chowder?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or stock if needed to thin it out.
Can I add other types of seafood to this chowder?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with clams, mussels, or even lobster for a luxurious twist.
Conclusion
This creamy seafood chowder is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the essence of the sea to your table. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish to impress family and friends or to simply treat yourself to a cozy night in. So grab your ladle and dive into this ocean of flavor – your taste buds will thank you!
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
