Salmon Chowder : This chowder is a comforting, creamy soup packed with tender chunks of salmon, potatoes, corn, and a blend of savory seasonings. It’s the perfect cozy meal for chilly days, with a rich, velvety broth that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.
What is Salmon Chowder?
Salmon chowder is a hearty soup that combines salmon, potatoes, vegetables, and a creamy broth to create a rich, satisfying dish. Its origins are rooted in traditional New England chowder, which typically includes a creamy base with seafood and potatoes. Salmon chowder is unique in its flavor and texture, thanks to the salmon, which adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the broth. This chowder is versatile; you can make it with fresh, canned, or even smoked salmon, depending on your preference.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Salmon Chowder
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Golds hold their shape well, adding a creamy texture without falling apart.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Add the salmon towards the end of cooking to prevent it from drying out.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, use heavy cream, or add a small amount of flour when sautéing the vegetables.
- Use Smoked Salmon for a Twist: Smoked salmon adds a deeper, more complex flavor, giving your chowder a hint of smokiness.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a creamy, lactose-free version.
Variations on Classic Salmon Chowder
- Smoked Salmon Chowder: Substitute fresh salmon with smoked salmon, adding a unique, rich, smoky flavor to the chowder.
- Seafood Chowder Mix: Combine salmon with other seafood, such as shrimp, crab, or clams, for a seafood medley.
- Spicy Salmon Chowder: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Vegetable-Heavy Chowder: Increase the vegetable content by adding bell peppers, kale, or spinach for a healthier twist.
How to Serve Salmon Chowder
Salmon chowder is hearty enough to be served on its own, but you can enhance the experience with some delicious accompaniments:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for dipping.
- Oyster Crackers: Classic, small oyster crackers add a fun crunch.
- Side Salad: A fresh, green salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the chowder.
For a complete seafood meal, serve with a side of smoked salmon appetizers or grilled shrimp skewers.
How to Store and Reheat Salmon Chowder
Storing
Salmon chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to freeze it, avoid adding the cream during cooking. Instead, add it when reheating, as dairy tends to separate when frozen.
Freezing Tips
- Freeze Without Dairy: To prevent separation, freeze the chowder without cream. When ready to reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and add the cream as you reheat.
- Use a Freezer-Safe Container: Ensure the container is airtight to prevent freezer burn and retain the chowder’s flavor.
Reheating
Reheat salmon chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can make the salmon tough and cause the cream to curdle. Alternatively, reheat individual servings in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through.
Salmon Chowder Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Canned Salmon for Salmon Chowder?
Yes! Canned salmon is a convenient and budget-friendly option. Just drain it before adding it to the chowder, and add it towards the end to prevent it from breaking apart.
What Type of Salmon Works Best for Chowder?
Fresh salmon fillets, such as wild-caught sockeye or king salmon, work wonderfully for chowder due to their flavor and texture. Smoked salmon adds a unique flavor twist, while canned salmon is ideal for quick, easy prep.
Can I Make Salmon Chowder Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can prepare salmon chowder a day in advance. The flavors meld together as it sits, enhancing the taste. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain the creamy texture.
How Can I Thicken My Chowder?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the sautéed vegetables, or use heavy cream instead of half-and-half. Another option is to mash some of the potatoes to release their starches into the broth.
Is Salmon Chowder Gluten-Free?
Yes, this chowder can be made gluten-free by omitting flour or thickening agents that contain gluten. Opt for cornstarch or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free thickener.
Salmon Chowder
Salmon Chowder : This chowder is a comforting, creamy soup packed with tender chunks of salmon, potatoes, corn, and a blend of savory seasonings.
Ingredients
- 3/4 to 1 lb fish scraps (like salmon, cod, or halibut), cut into 3/4-inch chunks (350-450g)
- 1/2 lb salt pork or bacon (225g), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup clam juice (235ml)
- 1 quart whole milk (900ml)
- 2 large ribs celery, finely chopped (170g)
- Kosher salt & black pepper
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (20g)
- 2 tbsp water (30ml)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (225g)
- 1 lb russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (450g)
- Hot sauce and crackers to serve
- Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Add bacon and water to a heavy pot over medium heat. Stir until the water evaporates and the bacon is crisp, about 8 minutes.
- Toss in onion and celery with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until softened but not browned, around 4 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring until no dry spots remain.
Pour in clam juice, then milk. Add potatoes and bay leaf, bringing it all to a gentle simmer. - Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
- Add fish chunks and let them simmer until just cooked, about 3 minutes.
- Season to taste, then dish up with fresh herbs, a dash of hot sauce, and crackers on the side.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 867Total Fat 60gSaturated Fat 23gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 33gCholesterol 132mgSodium 2066mgCarbohydrates 44gFiber 4gSugar 15gProtein 40g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Salmon chowder is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress whether it’s a family meal or a cozy dinner party. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and versatile nature, it’s a perfect addition to your cooking repertoire. Experiment with different variations, don’t be afraid to add your favorite herbs, and customize it to suit your taste. Once you try this delicious chowder, it’s sure to become a staple on chilly days!
Check my other salmon recipes:
