A Quick and Easy Seafood Chowder Recipe

Seafood Chowder Recipe is a beloved dish that has been enjoyed for generations, particularly in coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. This hearty soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed year-round. One of the best things about seafood chowder is its versatility; it can be made in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
From creamy and indulgent to light and brothy, there is a seafood chowder recipe to suit every palate.

A bowl of creamy seafood chowder recipe with shrimp, potatoes, and herbs served with crusty bread.

Easy Seafood Chowder

A quick and easy seafood chowder made with fresh shrimp, white fish, potatoes, and aromatic herbs. Rich, comforting, and full of flavor
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

– 2 tbsp butter

– 1 small onion, diced

– 2 celery stalks, chopped

– 1 carrot, chopped

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 2 medium potatoes, diced

– 3 cups seafood or fish stock

– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

– 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 1/2 lb white fish (like cod), cubed

– 1/2 cup scallops or crab meat (optional)

– 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for lighter version)

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried

– 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, carrot, and garlic until softened (about 5 minutes).

    Add diced potatoes, stock, and wine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

      Add shrimp, fish, and scallops (if using). Cook for 5–7 minutes until seafood is opaque and fully cooked.

        Stir in cream, season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer 2–3 minutes to heat through—do not boil.

          Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

            Notes

            – For dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for cream.
            – For thicker chowder: Mash some potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry.
            – Add smoked seafood like haddock for deeper flavor.
            Keyword seafood chowder, creamy chowder recipe, easy seafood soup, shrimp chowder

            Easy Seafood Chowder Recipe Without Cream


            For those looking for a lighter alternative to the traditional creamy Seafood Chowder Recipe, a recipe without cream can be a perfect choice. By using a combination of fish or seafood stock, white wine, or even coconut milk, this version of seafood chowder offers a delightful depth of flavor without the heaviness of cream. The result is a lighter, yet still satisfying, seafood chowder that allows the natural flavors of the seafood to shine through.

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            Best Seafood Chowder Recipe


            The best seafood chowder recipe is often a matter of personal preference, but a few key elements can elevate any Seafood Chowder Recipe to greatness. Using a combination of fresh seafood such as shrimp, scallops, and white fish, along with aromatic vegetables like onions, celery, and potatoes, creates a rich and flavorful base for the chowder. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs and a splash of white wine can add complexity and depth to the dish.

            Seafood Chowder Recipe Jamie Oliver

            Seafood Chowder Recipe Jamie Oliver
            Preparation Time20 minutes
            Cooking Time30 minutes
            Servings4-6
            Main IngredientsSeafood, potatoes, onions, garlic, cream, fish stock
            Calories per Serving300


            Renowned chef Jamie Oliver offers a delightful take on Seafood Chowder Recipe with his recipe that combines the richness of cream with the freshness of seafood and vegetables. Oliver’s recipe typically includes a medley of seafood such as prawns, mussels, and smoked haddock, along with leeks, potatoes, and a touch of white wine for added depth of flavor.

            Irish Seafood Chowder Recipe


            In Ireland, seafood chowder is a beloved dish that often features a combination of locally sourced seafood such as salmon, cod, and mussels. The Irish Seafood Chowder Recipe is typically made with a creamy base that includes milk or cream, along with potatoes, onions, and herbs for added flavor.

            Simple Maritime Seafood Chowder Recipe

            The Classic Maritime Recipe

            A simple Maritime seafood chowder often includes a mix of fresh fish and shellfish, combined with potatoes, onions, and carrots in a creamy broth.

            Fresh Seafood Abundance

            The Maritime provinces are renowned for their rich waters, providing an abundance of fresh fish and shellfish that are expertly incorporated into this hearty dish.

            A Comforting Meal

            This traditional Maritime seafood chowder is a comforting meal that warms the heart and soul, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with family and friends.

            Seafood Chowder Gordon Ramsay


            Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s take on seafood chowder is known for its bold flavors and expert technique. Ramsay’s recipe often includes a combination of smoked haddock, prawns, and mussels in a creamy base infused with aromatic herbs and a hint of saffron for an extra layer of complexity.

            Creamy Seafood Chowder Recipe PEI


            Prince Edward Island (PEI) is renowned for its fresh seafood, and the creamy seafood chowder recipe from this region often features a luxurious blend of lobster, scallops, and clams in a rich and velvety cream-based broth.

            Ingredients for a Flavorful Seafood Chowder


            The key to a flavorful seafood chowder lies in the quality and variety of ingredients used. Fresh seafood such as shrimp, scallops, crab, or white fish forms the foundation of the dish, while aromatic vegetables like onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes add depth and texture. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, or dill can enhance the overall flavor profile of the chowder.

            Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Delicious Seafood Chowder


            To make a delicious seafood chowder, start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in butter until they are soft and fragrant. Then add diced potatoes and fish or seafood stock to create a flavorful base for the chowder. Once the potatoes are tender, add the seafood of your choice and simmer until cooked through.

            Finally, stir in cream or milk to create a rich and creamy texture, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.

            Tips for Enhancing the Flavor of Your Seafood Chowder


            To enhance the flavor of your seafood chowder, consider adding a splash of white wine or sherry during the cooking process to impart depth and complexity. Additionally, incorporating smoked seafood such as smoked haddock or salmon can add a delightful smokiness to the chowder. Finally, finishing the chowder with a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving can elevate the overall flavor profile.

            Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Seafood Chowder


            Seafood chowder is best served piping hot in large bowls, accompanied by crusty bread or oyster crackers for dipping. For an elegant presentation, consider garnishing each bowl with a sprig of fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Pairing the chowder with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied beer can complement the flavors of the dish.

            Health Benefits of Including Seafood in Your Chowder


            Including seafood in your chowder not only adds delicious flavor but also provides numerous health benefits. Seafood is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that support heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Additionally, incorporating a variety of seafood in your chowder ensures a diverse array of nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet.

            How to Make Simple Seafood Chowder?


            To make a simple seafood chowder, start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in butter until they are soft. Add diced potatoes and fish or seafood stock to create a flavorful base for the chowder. Once the potatoes are tender, add your choice of seafood and simmer until cooked through.

            Finally, stir in cream or milk to create a rich texture and season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.

            What Two Ingredients Must Be Present for the Soup to Be Called a Chowder?


            Traditionally, two key ingredients that must be present for a soup to be called a chowder are seafood and potatoes. These two elements form the foundation of the dish and contribute to its hearty and satisfying nature.

            What Is the Best Cream for Seafood Chowder?


            The best cream for seafood chowder is typically heavy cream or whipping cream. These types of cream provide richness and velvety texture to the chowder without overpowering the delicate flavors of the seafood.

            What Is Usually in a Seafood Chowder?


            A typical seafood chowder includes a variety of fresh seafood such as shrimp, scallops, crab, or white fish, combined with aromatic vegetables like onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes in a creamy or brothy base. Additional ingredients may include herbs, spices, and sometimes bacon for added depth of flavor.

            What Thickens Seafood Chowder?


            Seafood chowder is often thickened by incorporating flour or cornstarch into the cooking process. These thickening agents help create a creamy and luscious texture while binding the ingredients together.

            What Is a Good Substitute for Clams in Chowder?


            For those who prefer not to use clams in their chowder or have allergies to shellfish, a good substitute can be firm white fish such as cod or halibut. These fish varieties provide a similar texture and mild flavor that complements other seafood in the chowder.


            FAQs

            How to make simple seafood chowder?

            To make a simple seafood chowder, you will need ingredients such as seafood (such as shrimp, fish, and clams), potatoes, onions, celery, garlic, seafood stock, and seasonings. The seafood and vegetables are cooked in the seafood stock, and then cream is added to create a creamy base for the chowder.

            What two ingredients must be present for the soup to be called a chowder?

            The two essential ingredients that must be present for a soup to be called a chowder are seafood and potatoes. These ingredients are what distinguish chowder from other types of soups.

            What is the best cream for seafood chowder?

            The best cream for seafood chowder is heavy cream, as it provides a rich and creamy texture to the chowder. It adds a luxurious mouthfeel and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

            What is usually in a seafood chowder?

            Seafood chowder usually contains a variety of seafood such as shrimp, fish, and clams, along with potatoes, onions, celery, garlic, seafood stock, and cream. The specific ingredients can vary based on the recipe and personal preferences.

            What thickens seafood chowder?

            Seafood chowder is typically thickened by the starch released from the potatoes as they cook. As the potatoes break down, they naturally thicken the chowder, creating a creamy and hearty texture.

            What is a good substitute for clams in chowder?

            A good substitute for clams in chowder is another type of seafood such as crab, lobster, or scallops. These seafood options can provide a similar briny and savory flavor to the chowder.

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