Seafood chowder is a hearty, comforting dish that brings the flavors of the sea straight to your table. Creamy and rich, this chowder is packed with tender pieces of fish, succulent shrimp, and sweet, briny clams, all simmered together with potatoes and a savory broth. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or serve a special meal to guests, this seafood chowder is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish.
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Chowder
This seafood chowder is a wonderful balance of creamy richness and fresh, oceanic flavors. It’s versatile and can be made with a variety of seafood, depending on what you have available. The recipe is straightforward, yet the results are restaurant-quality, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups fish or seafood stock (or chicken stock)
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound clams or mussels, cleaned
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Crumbled bacon or chives for garnish