There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy seafood chowder. This rich, flavorful soup brings together a variety of seafood and vegetables, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for a chilly evening or any time you’re craving a taste of the sea, this recipe offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable Creamy Seafood Chowder that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chowder:
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon thyme
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 stalk celery, sliced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup corn
- 5 cups seafood or chicken broth
- ½ cup white wine
- 8 ounces white fish (cod, salmon, tilapia, haddock), cut into chunks
- 8 ounces scallops
- 12 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 ½ ounces chopped clams (canned, drained)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon parsley
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from the heat and fry the cubed onion for about 5 minutes, before turning golden-brown. Stir in the Old Bay seasoning and thyme, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the butter with their flavors.
2. Add the Vegetables: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to combine, forming a roux. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Add the sliced celery, carrot, and cubed potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them with the roux.
3. Incorporate the Liquids: Gradually pour in the seafood or chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Pour over the white wine and gently warm the blend to a rolling boil. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Seafood: Stir in the corn, followed by the chunks of white fish, scallops, shrimp, and chopped clams. Let the chowder simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and tender.
5. Finish with Cream: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let the chowder heat through, but do not bring it to a boil to prevent the cream from curdling. If necessary, season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the creamy seafood chowder into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread or oyster crackers to soak up every last drop.
Conclusion
This Creamy Seafood Chowder is a wonderful blend of rich, creamy broth and succulent seafood, making it a perfect dish for seafood lovers. The combination of white fish, scallops, shrimp, and clams provides a variety of textures and flavors, while the vegetables add a comforting heartiness. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, this chowder is sure to warm you up and transport your taste buds to the seaside. Try this recipe and bring a bit of ocean-inspired comfort to your table.