Rich Seafood Chowder is a hearty and comforting dish that brings the flavors of the sea to your table in a creamy, flavorful broth. Packed with tender shrimp, succulent fish, and sweet clams, this chowder is enriched with potatoes, onions, and celery, giving it a perfect balance of textures. The creamy base, infused with garlic, thyme, and a hint of smokiness from bacon, enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood. This indulgent chowder is ideal for cool weather or whenever you’re craving a comforting, restaurant-quality seafood dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb white fish (cod, haddock, or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 lb clams (or 1 can of clams, drained)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups fish or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic to the pot and sauté in the bacon drippings for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in the broth and add the thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the Seafood:
- Stir in the shrimp, fish, and clams (if using fresh, steam the clams separately and add them at the end). Simmer for 4-5 minutes, until the seafood is cooked through.
- Finish with Cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and butter. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon and fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Rich Seafood Chowder is a luxurious, creamy soup that’s loaded with fresh seafood and hearty vegetables, perfect for any time you want to indulge in a deliciously comforting meal.
