Seafood Chowder Recipe
Introduction
This hearty seafood chowder is creamy, comforting, and packed with the flavors of the sea. A combination of shrimp, fish, and clams (or your choice of seafood) mingles with tender potatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic herbs in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.
⏱ Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
Seafood:
200g (7 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
200g (7 oz) white fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock), cut into chunks
150g (5 oz) cooked clams or mussels (optional)
Vegetables & Base:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1½ cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups fish stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Sauté vegetables:
In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Add potatoes and broth:
Stir in potatoes, Old Bay (if using), and fish stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Make it creamy:
In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of milk until smooth (optional, for a thicker chowder). Stir into the pot. Add remaining milk and cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Add seafood:
Gently add shrimp and fish. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until seafood is opaque and cooked through. If using cooked clams or mussels, stir them in during the last 2 minutes.
Finish and serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a side of crusty bread.
Tips
Seafood Swaps: Use scallops, salmon, or crab for variety.
Thick or Thin: For a thicker chowder, use more flour or mash a few potato chunks. For thinner, add extra broth.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk and skip the cream.
Make-Ahead: Tastes even better the next day! Reheat gently to avoid overcooking seafood.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen seafood?
A: Yes! Thaw before adding and pat dry to prevent excess water in the chowder.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat on low to avoid rubbery seafood.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Freezing is not ideal due to dairy and seafood texture changes, but you can freeze the base before adding cream or seafood.
Nutrition (per serving – approx.)
- Calories: 370
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Sugar: 5g