5 Irresistible Seafood Chowder Recipes for Every Occasion

December 31, 2024

5 Seafood Chowder Recipes to Warm Your Soul

Seafood chowder is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, briny flavors of the ocean with hearty ingredients like potatoes, cream, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur or new to the world of chowder, these recipes will help you create dishes that are satisfying, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

“A great chowder is a symphony of flavors—earthy potatoes, sweet seafood, and creamy broth, all playing in harmony.” – Chef Thomas Keller, renowned for his culinary mastery at The French Laundry

This guide features five standout chowder recipes, complete with detailed instructions and tips for perfecting your seafood cooking skills. For premium seafood, visit Global Seafoods.

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Classic New England Clam Chowder

This traditional recipe is the gold standard of chowders. With creamy broth and tender clams, it’s a dish that satisfies every time.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups clam juice
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cans minced clams, drained
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook Bacon: Fry bacon in a large pot until crisp. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Sauté onion and garlic in the bacon drippings until soft.
3. Thicken the Base: Sprinkle flour over the onions, cooking for 2–3 minutes while stirring constantly.
4. Build the Chowder: Add chicken broth, clam juice, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
5. Finish with Cream and Clams: Stir in heavy cream and clams, and cook for 5–10 minutes more. Season to taste.
6. Serve: Garnish with parsley and reserved bacon.

Chef’s Tip from Julia Child: “Fresh clams elevate chowder, but quality canned clams can deliver remarkable flavor when paired with a well-crafted broth.”

For fresh seafood options, try Global Seafoods’ selection of fish and shellfish.

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Creamy Salmon Chowder

This creamy salmon chowder offers a luxurious texture and a delicate balance of flavors, perfect for impressing dinner guests.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 pound salmon, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill, chopped

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Base: Add chicken broth, potatoes, and corn. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
3. Add Salmon and Cream: Stir in heavy cream and salmon. Cook for 5–10 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky.
4. Season and Garnish: Season with salt, pepper, and fresh dill.

Chef’s Quote: “Salmon’s richness shines in a chowder. Balance its flavor with dill and a touch of corn’s natural sweetness.” – Chef Gordon Ramsay

Purchase premium salmon for this dish at Global Seafoods.

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Spicy Shrimp and Sausage Chowder

This chowder is a bold and spicy twist on traditional recipes, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 cup potatoes, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown Sausage: Sauté sausage slices in a large pot until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook Aromatics: Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until softened.
3. Simmer: Add chicken broth, tomatoes, potatoes, paprika, cayenne, and oregano. Cook for 20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
4. Finish with Cream and Shrimp: Stir in heavy cream and shrimp, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Return sausage to the pot. Season to taste.

Expert Advice: “Shrimp cooks quickly, so always add them toward the end to prevent overcooking.” – Chef Emeril Lagasse

Explore fresh shrimp options at Global Seafoods.

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What Makes Seafood Chowder a Timeless Dish?

Versatility and Flavor

Seafood chowders are beloved for their ability to bring together diverse ingredients while highlighting the natural flavors of the sea. Whether creamy or spicy, they can be adapted to include your favorite seafood.

Health Benefits

Seafood chowders are packed with essential nutrients:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promote heart and brain health.
• High-Quality Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in B12, selenium, and iodine.

“Seafood is not only delicious but an integral part of a balanced diet. It nourishes both body and soul.” – Chef Jacques Pépin

Best Seafood Choices for Chowder

For a sustainable and high-quality selection, visit Global Seafoods and explore options like tuna, sablefish, and more.

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FAQs About Seafood Chowder

1. Can I make chowder ahead of time?

Yes, seafood chowders can be made a day ahead. However, avoid adding seafood until reheating to ensure freshness.

2. What are the best potatoes for chowder?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor.

3. Can I freeze seafood chowder?

Yes, but note that cream-based chowders may separate when thawed. Stir well during reheating to restore consistency.

4. How can I add more depth of flavor to my chowder?

Use a base of sautéed aromatics like onions and garlic, deglaze with white wine, and incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or dill.

5. Are there dairy-free alternatives for creamy chowder?

Coconut milk or almond milk can be substituted for heavy cream to create a dairy-free version.

For more seafood cooking tips and recipes, visit our YouTube Channel.

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