Dive into a bowl of warmth and comfort with this creamy seafood chowder recipe, a delightful blend of fresh seafood, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or special gatherings, this chowder is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether you prefer shrimp, crab, or fish, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your favorite seafood. Each spoonful promises a burst of flavor and a satisfying creaminess that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- Seafood:
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup scallops
- 1 cup white fish (such as cod or haddock), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup crab meat (optional)
- Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Liquids:
- 4 cups seafood or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Seafood:
Start by rinsing and preparing your seafood. If using frozen shrimp or scallops, thaw them under cold running water. Cut the fish into bite-sized pieces and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. - Add the Potatoes and Broth:
Stir in the diced potatoes and seafood or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Incorporate the Seafood:
Once the potatoes are tender, add the shrimp, scallops, fish, and corn to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and opaque. - Create the Creamy Base:
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Add the dried thyme, dill, salt, and pepper. Let the chowder simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. - Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the chowder and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference. - Serve:
Ladle the creamy seafood chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. - Enjoy:
Savor the delightful flavors of the sea with each hearty spoonful!