Fish Chowder Recipe is one of the most comforting dishes, especially for seafood lovers. The richness of the broth, the delicate texture of the fish, and the heartiness of the vegetables combine to create a perfect meal for chilly days or a hearty family dinner. In this article, we explore two delicious fish chowder recipes featuring haddock—one that brings a touch of Nova Scotia’s coastal flavors and another with a Californian twist. Both offer unique tastes and cooking methods, so let’s dive into these fantastic fish chowder recipes!

Why Choose Haddock for Fish Chowder?

Haddock is a firm, white fish with a mild flavor and flaky texture, making it an ideal choice for chowder. Its sturdiness allows it to maintain its shape in the creamy broth, adding both flavor and texture without breaking apart. If haddock is unavailable, you can substitute other firm white fish like cod, halibut, or pollock. Regardless of the fish you choose, haddock adds an authentic and delicate flavor that will make your chowder delicious.

Fish Chowder Recipe 1: Down East Haddock Chowder

This simple yet delightful haddock chowder is inspired by the famous dish served at the Evangeline Snack Bar in Grand Pré, Nova Scotia. With its blend of fresh haddock, potatoes, celery, and light cream, this chowder is both flavorful and easy to make. It’s a perfect introduction to Canadian-style chowder.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb haddock fillets (or firm white fish)
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups potatoes, cubed and peeled
• 1 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 pinch freshly ground pepper
• 1 cup light cream or evaporated milk
• 2 tablespoons butter

Step-By-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fish Stock:
   • Place the fish fillets, water, and salt in a large saucepan.
   • Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes.
   • When the fish is opaque, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before breaking it into small, bite-sized pieces.
   •  Set the fish aside.
2. Skim the Fish Stock:
   • Skim off any foam that has formed on top of the fish stock. This helps ensure the broth remains clear and flavorful.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
   • Add the cubed potatoes, chopped onion, and celery to the pot.
   • Cover and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the Fish:
   • Once the vegetables are tender, return the fish to the pot.
5. Add the Milk:
   • Pour in the light cream or evaporated milk and heat through, but avoid bringing the soup to a boil at this stage.
6. Season and Finish:
   • Taste the chowdber and adjust the seasoning, adding salt and pepper to suit your preference.
   • Swirl in the butter for added richness.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the chowder into heated bowls and serve immediately.

Fish Chowder Recipe 2: Bodega Bay Fish Chowder (California-Inspired)

This version of fish chowder is a beloved recipe from the fishermen of Bodega Bay, California. It features cod (or haddock), a mix of vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth with a subtle kick from Old Bay seasoning and a topping of crispy bacon.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 4 fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 4 cups diced potatoes
• 2 pounds cod (or haddock), diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 cup clam juice
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅛ teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning (or to taste)
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2 (12 fluid ounce) cans evaporated milk
• ¼ cup cooked crumbled bacon (for topping)

Step-By-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat the butter in a large stockpot over medium heat until melted.
   • Add the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the Stock and Potatoes:
   • Add the chicken stock and diced potatoes to the pot.
   • Simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Add the Fish:
   • Stir in the diced fish and simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. Thicken the Chowder:
   • In a small bowl, mix the clam juice and flour until smooth.
   • Stir this mixture into the soup and simmer for 1 more minute to thicken the broth.
5. Season the Chowder:
   • Add Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the evaporated milk.
6. Serve:
   • Portion the chowder into soup bowls and top each serving with crumbled bacon for extra flavor and crunch.

Nutrition Facts:

Down East Haddock Chowder (Per Serving):

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 15g
• Carbs: 32g
• Protein: 18g

Bodega Bay Fish Chowder (Per Serving):

• Calories: 386
• Fat: 14g
• Carbs: 34g
• Protein: 32g

Reviews & Community Feedback:

Down East Haddock Chowder:

Many reviewers from the Allrecipes community praise the simplicity and the natural flavor of this chowder. Users highlight how quick it is to prepare and how well the fish and potatoes meld together in the broth. One reviewer notes, “It’s the perfect balance of flavors, and the creaminess of the broth really brings everything together. This is a keeper!”

Bodega Bay Fish Chowder:

This chowder has received rave reviews for its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors. One reviewer shared, “I always use cod when I make this, and my family loves it. The Old Bay seasoning adds a great depth of flavor without being overwhelming.” Another reviewer shared their secret tip: “I add a few shakes of hot sauce to spice it up. It’s fantastic!”

Tips & Praise from the Community:

• Use Fresh Fish: For the best flavor, always try to use fresh fish. The quality of the fish will make a huge difference in the final taste of the chowder.
• Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings. While Old Bay seasoning is a classic, other seafood seasonings, such as Cajun or Italian seasoning, can bring new flavors to your chowder.
• Additions: Consider adding cooked shrimp, crumbled bacon, or fresh herbs like parsley to garnish your chowder for extra flavor and texture.
• Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can blend a small portion of the soup and then stir it back into the pot to create a creamy base.

What to Serve with Fish Chowder:

Fish Chowder Recipe is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with several side dishes:

• Oyster Crackers: A classic pairing for any chowder, oyster crackers are light and crunchy.
• Crusty Bread: Homemade French bread or sourdough makes a great companion to soak up the creamy soup.
• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing can balance the richness of the chowder.

How to Store and Reheat Fish Chowder:

Storage:

Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Reheating:

Reheat chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent it from sticking. You can add a splash of milk or broth if the chowder has thickened too much after being refrigerated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Fish Chowder Recipe

Can I use frozen haddock for fish chowder?

Yes, you can use frozen haddock, but ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before adding it to the chowder to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make fish chowder ahead of time?

Yes, you can make fish chowder a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together even more, making it taste even better the next day.

What other types of fish can I use in fish chowder?

Besides haddock, you can use cod, pollock, halibut, or other firm white fish. Each variety will contribute a slightly different flavor but still work well in chowder.

Can I make fish chowder without milk?

Yes, you can use coconut milk, a dairy-free cream, or just more chicken stock for a lighter version of fish chowder.

Conclusion About Fish Chowder Recipe

Fish Chowder Recipe is a comforting, versatile dish that can be made with many variations. Whether you choose the classic Down East Haddock Chowder with its simple, clean flavors or the richer Bodega Bay Fish Chowder with its creamy base and spicy kick, both versions are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings. These recipes are perfect for cold weather, serving as a nourishing meal for your family or guests. With a few simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can create a delicious chowder that everyone will love.

If you love seafood soups and chowders, these recipes are a must-try for their balanced flavors, rich textures, and satisfying taste!Discover a delicious fish chowder recipe with haddock! This creamy, hearty dish features tender haddock fillets, potatoes, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal. Easy to make and full of flavor