Dive into a bowl of comfort with our delectable New England Seafood Chowder, a classic dish that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! Imagine a creamy, rich blend of fresh seafood, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon, all simmered to perfection. This chowder is not just a meal; it's an experience that transports you straight to the charming coastal towns of New England. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or craving a nostalgic taste of the sea, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: New England
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 2 cups seafood mix (shrimp, scallops, fish)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups fish stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, rendering out the fat. Remove bacon bits with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add chopped onions to the bacon fat and sauté until translucent and softened, approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add diced potatoes to the pot and cook with onions for 5-6 minutes, allowing potatoes to slightly soften and absorb the bacon and onion flavors.
- Pour in fish stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook potatoes until they are tender but not falling apart, about 10-12 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream, being careful not to let the mixture boil to prevent cream from separating.
- Gently add seafood mix to the pot, cooking for 3-4 minutes until shrimp turns pink and fish is just opaque and flaky.
- Season the chowder with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle chowder into serving bowls, garnish with reserved crispy bacon bits and chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side for a traditional New England dining experience.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Seafood: For the best flavor, opt for fresh seafood. If you can, visit your local fish market to find the freshest shrimp, scallops, and fish available.
- Bacon Matters: Don’t skip the bacon! The rendered fat adds a depth of flavor that is essential to the chowder. Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and richness.
- Creamy Consistency: When adding the heavy cream, do so over low heat and avoid boiling. This will help maintain a smooth, creamy texture without the risk of separation.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! The amount of salt and pepper can vary based on your seafood and personal preference, so adjust accordingly.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the chowder to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Serve with Style: Pair your chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for that authentic New England experience. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness.
- Make it Ahead: This chowder can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 404kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 22g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 135mg
