Imagine wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly evening with a bowl of creamy, rich seafood chowder brimming with tender shrimp, succulent scallops, and hearty chunks of white fish. This comforting dish is not only a perfect way to enjoy a variety of seafood but also a delightful meal that brings a taste of the ocean right to your table. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe offers a simple, step-by-step guide to creating a chowder that will warm both the body and soul.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon thyme
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 celery stalk, sliced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup corn kernels
- 5 cups seafood or chicken broth
- ½ cup white wine
- 8 ounces white fish, cut into pieces (e.g., cod, salmon, tilapia, or haddock)
- 8 ounces scallops
- 12 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 ½ ounces canned chopped clams, drained
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Add the diced onion, Old Bay seasoning, and thyme. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour flavor.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the sliced celery, carrot, and cubed potatoes. Allow them to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Build the Base: Pour in the broth and white wine, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Incorporate the Seafood: Gently add the pieces of white fish, scallops, shrimp, and chopped clams to the pot. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and opaque.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and corn, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chowder to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chowder from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Conclusion:
This creamy seafood chowder is the epitome of comfort food, combining the richness of heavy cream with the delicate flavors of fresh seafood and hearty vegetables. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, making any meal feel special. Whether served as a starter or a main course, this chowder is a satisfying way to enjoy the bounty of the sea. Enjoy this hearty meal on a cold day, and let each spoonful remind you of the warmth and beauty of the ocean.