Fish Chowder Recipe: A Hearty and Delicious Seafood

Fish chowder is a comforting and creamy seafood dish packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. This hearty soup originates from New England but has variations worldwide, each offering a unique take on this classic dish. A well-made fish chowder is creamy, thick, and full of tender chunks of fish, potatoes, and aromatic vegetables, making it a perfect meal for any season.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking for a nutritious and satisfying meal, this Fish Chowder Recipe will guide you through making an easy and flavorful dish. Follow these detailed instructions to create a restaurant-quality chowder in your own kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 30 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Cuisine: American, New England
• Course: Main Course, Soup
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~350 per serving

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or halibut), cut into 1-inch chunks
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups (1 liter) fish or seafood broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra depth of flavor)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, optional)
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Peeler and grater (if needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut them into bite-sized chunks and set aside.
2. Peel and chop the vegetables: dice the onions, mince the garlic, and chop the potatoes, carrots, and celery into small cubes.
3. If using bacon, cook it in the pot until crispy, then remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tbsp of bacon fat for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

4. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
6. Stir in the thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chowder Base

7. Add the diced potatoes and sprinkle in the flour (if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables.
8. Pour in the fish broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
9. Cover and let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add the Fish and Dairy

10. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk and heavy cream.
11. Gently add the fish chunks and let them poach for about 5-7 minutes until they turn opaque and flake easily with a fork.
12. If using corn, add it at this stage and let it heat through.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

13. Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
14. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
15. Garnish with crispy bacon bits (if using) and fresh parsley.
16. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers for an authentic experience.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Tips for the Best Fish Chowder

• Choose the Right Fish: Use firm white fish such as cod, haddock, or halibut, which hold their shape well in chowder.
• Enhance the Flavor: Bacon, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs can add extra depth to your chowder.
• Thicker Chowder: If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes or use an extra tablespoon of flour.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

Conclusion

This Fish Chowder Recipe brings together the richness of seafood, the creaminess of dairy, and the heartiness of vegetables to create a comforting and delicious meal. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this chowder is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of warm, flavorful fish chowder!