Seafood chowder is a beloved coastal dish known for its creamy richness and soul-warming flavors. Originating from the shores of New England, this hearty soup has become a global favorite, especially in colder months. What makes it special is the harmonious blend of fresh seafood, tender potatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a velvety broth. It’s a dish that brings the ocean’s bounty to your bowl and offers comfort in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make an authentic and indulgent seafood chowder:
Base Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 stalks celery, diced
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1 large carrot, diced
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3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
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4 cups seafood or chicken stock
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup whole milk
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and pepper to taste
Seafood:
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1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1/2 lb scallops
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1/2 lb white fish (e.g., cod or haddock), cut into chunks
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1/2 cup canned or fresh clams (optional)
Add-ins (Optional but Recommended):
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1 cup sweet corn kernels
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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A dash of smoked paprika or cayenne (for a hint of heat)
Substitutions:
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
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Gluten-Free: Most chowders are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your stock.
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Vegetarian: Replace seafood with mushrooms, diced tofu, or jackfruit for texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Sauté the aromatics
In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. -
Add garlic and potatoes
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add potatoes and mix well. -
Add liquids and simmer
Pour in the stock and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. -
Add dairy
Stir in the milk and cream. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes—avoid boiling after adding dairy to prevent curdling. -
Add seafood
Add shrimp, scallops, and white fish. Cook for 5–7 minutes until seafood is opaque and just cooked through. If using clams, add them at this stage too. -
Final touches
Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Stir in corn and parsley. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Don’t overcook seafood: Overcooked seafood becomes rubbery. Add it toward the end of cooking.
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Thicken naturally: If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash a few potato cubes into the broth.
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Use a heavy-bottomed pot: Prevents scorching and allows even cooking.
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Let it rest: Chowder tastes even better after it sits for a few hours or overnight.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian version: Use vegetable stock and replace seafood with mushrooms, jackfruit, or hearts of palm.
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Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or Cajun seasoning.
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Low-carb option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower or turnips.
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Fusion twist: Try a Thai-inspired version with coconut milk, lemongrass, and lime.
Serving Suggestions
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Presentation: Serve in rustic bread bowls or deep ceramic bowls with a parsley or dill garnish.
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Sides: Crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a fresh green salad complement the chowder perfectly.
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Pairing: A crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a light beer makes a great match.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, based on 6 servings)
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Calories: 380
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Protein: 26g
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Fat: 20g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 680mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat—avoid boiling.
Q: Can I freeze seafood chowder?
Not recommended if it contains dairy, as the texture may change. Freeze before adding cream, then add it when reheating.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook everything except the seafood on low for 4–6 hours, then add seafood in the last 30 minutes.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or hosting a cozy dinner, seafood chowder is a timeless, crowd-pleasing classic. Its blend of creamy comfort and oceanic freshness makes it a dish worth mastering. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations—and most importantly, enjoy the cooking process! If you try this recipe, share your version or drop your questions in the comments.
