Creamy Seafood Chowder

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Creamy Seafood Chowder

Creamy Seafood Chowder is a delightful dish that warms the soul with every spoonful. Imagine a rich, velvety broth infused with the freshest ocean flavors, complemented by tender chunks of seafood and hearty vegetables. This chowder invites you to experience the taste of the sea right at home and is perfect for cozy evenings with family or friends. The mix of textures, from the creamy base to the succulent seafood, makes each bite an adventure. It’s a recipe that not only comforts but also brings smiles all around the table. Best of all, this step-by-step guide will help you create it effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of this Creamy Seafood Chowder lies in its simplicity and overwhelming flavor. You’ll appreciate the easy prep, as it only requires a handful of ingredients. This recipe is family-friendly, bringing everyone together to enjoy a nutritious meal. In less than an hour, you can have a comforting bowl of chowder ready, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Plus, the minimal ingredients ensure that you can whip it up without a trip to the store, making it an excellent go-to recipe when time and resources are limited.

Ingredients for Creamy Seafood Chowder

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the vegetables, adding a rich depth of flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Offers a sweet base that’s essential to the chowder.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic richness that elevates the dish.
• 2 medium carrots, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 stalks celery, diced: Contributes crunch and freshness to the chowder.
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups): Provides heartiness and makes the chowder filling.
• 4 cups fish or chicken broth: The flavorful base that enhances the seafood.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the chowder its creamy texture, making it indulgent.
• 1 cup whole milk: Balances the richness of the cream, keeping it smooth.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy note that complements seafood beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Brings a classic seafood flavor to the chowder.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Provides a subtle heat.
• 1 pound mixed seafood (e.g., shrimp, scallops, fish): The star of the dish that delivers freshness.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens up the chowder with color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Directions for Creamy Seafood Chowder

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and their flavors to meld.
3. Add the cubed potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
4. Once the potatoes are cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, thyme, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
5. Gently fold in the mixed seafood and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the seafood is opaque and cooked through.
6. Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
7. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Creamy Seafood Chowder, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist. If you’re looking for extra texture, try topping your chowder with crispy bacon or toasted bread crumbs. For a bit of spice, incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful kick. Additionally, swapping half of the potatoes for corn can provide natural sweetness and an appealing crunch.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Creamy Seafood Chowder is best enjoyed hot, ideally paired with crusty bread or buttery crackers for dipping. A light green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette can also complement the chowder beautifully, adding a fresh contrast to its richness. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a simple sandwich filled with your favorite ingredients. Consider pairing it with a chilled white grape juice or herbal tea for a harmonious dining experience.

Nutritional Information

This delicious chowder is not just comforting but also packed with nutrients. Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying meal. With a mix of protein from the seafood and vitamins from the vegetables, it’s a well-rounded choice for any family dinner. Feel free to indulge, but remember to enjoy it in moderation!

Storing Tips & Variations for Creamy Seafood Chowder

If you find yourself with leftovers, Creamy Seafood Chowder can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The chowder can also be frozen for up to three months, although the texture may change slightly upon reheating. For healthier swaps, consider using low-fat milk and substituting some of the heavy cream with additional broth. Variations to try include adding different seafood options, such as crab or clams, or even incorporating seasonal vegetables like corn or peas for additional flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion for Creamy Seafood Chowder

Don’t wait any longer to experience the comforting delight of Creamy Seafood Chowder. This recipe is perfect for bringing warmth to your dining table and creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Follow this easy step-by-step guide, and savor the rich flavors that make this dish an absolute favorite. Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and dive into cooking this delicious chowder today!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen seafood for this chowder?
Yes, frozen seafood works well, but make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the chowder.

2. Is it safe to reheat leftover chowder?
Absolutely! Just reheat it on low heat while stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

3. Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.

4. How long does this chowder take to prepare?
From start to finish, you can prepare this chowder in about 30-40 minutes.

5. Can I add more vegetables to the chowder?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Creamy Seafood Chowder

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A delightful dish that warms the soul with a rich, velvety broth infused with fresh seafood and hearty vegetables.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Pescatarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
• 4 cups fish or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1 pound mixed seafood (e.g., shrimp, scallops, fish)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and their flavors to meld.
3. Add the cubed potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
4. Once the potatoes are cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, thyme, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
5. Gently fold in the mixed seafood and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the seafood is opaque and cooked through.
6. Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
7. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

For a refreshing twist, add a splash of lemon juice before serving. Top with crispy bacon or toasted bread crumbs for extra texture and flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

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