Maine Fish Chowder Recipe: When it comes to comforting, homey meals, nothing beats a steaming bowl of Maine fish chowder. Creamy yet light, hearty but not heavy, this chowder embodies the culinary traditions of New England. Simple ingredients like fresh haddock, potatoes, and cream come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and history.

Whether you’re reminiscing about summers in Bar Harbor or exploring New England cuisine for the first time, this recipe is the perfect starting point. Here’s everything you need to know about making a classic Maine fish chowder, from the ingredients to tips, FAQs, and more.

What Makes Maine Fish Chowder Special?

Maine fish chowder differs from its Manhattan counterpart by its milky base. Where Manhattan chowders rely on a tomato broth with added vegetables, Maine’s version is all about creaminess, simplicity, and letting the fish shine. It’s a dish that showcases the fresh seafood bounty of the region without overpowering flavors.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Maine fish chowder recipe, you’ll need just a handful of basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• Fish: 1 lb fresh haddock or cod (skinless and boneless)
• Potatoes: 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• Dairy: 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk, ½ cup half-and-half or heavy cream
• Butter: 5 tbsp unsalted butter
• Seasonings: 1 bay leaf, 1 ½ tsp kosher salt, fresh-ground pepper

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh minced chives
• Oyster crackers or warm buttermilk biscuits

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Dice the Vegetables:
   • Peel and dice the potatoes into medium-sized cubes.
   • Finely chop the onion.
   • Optional: Keep diced potatoes submerged in cold water to prevent browning.
2. Prep the Fish:
   • Ensure the fish fillets are completely free of bones and skin.

Step 2: Cook the Base

1. Sauté the Onions:
   • Melt 2-3 tbsp of butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onions and bay leaf. Cook until the onions are translucent but not browned (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add Potatoes:
   • Stir in the diced potatoes and add just enough cold water to cover them.
   • Cover the pot and simmer gently for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just fork-tender.

Step 3: Simmer the Fish

1. Add the Fish and Dairy:
   • Lay the fish fillets on top of the potatoes.
   • Pour in the evaporated milk and half-and-half or heavy cream. Do not stir.
2. Cook Slowly:
   • Cover and simmer gently for 15 minutes. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the milk to curdle.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Season and Stir:
   • Add the remaining butter, kosher salt, and fresh-ground pepper.
   • Gently stir to break apart the fish into chunks while combining the flavors.
2. Garnish and Serve:
   • Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with minced chives, and serve with oyster crackers or biscuits.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Maine fish chowder (based on 4 servings):

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chowder

• Choose the Right Fish: Haddock or cod works best due to their firm texture and mild flavor.
• Avoid Over-Stirring: Stirring too much can break apart the fish and potatoes, making the chowder mushy.
• Warm the Milk: Gently heat the dairy before adding it to the pot to prevent curdling.
• Customize Your Chowder:
  • Add cooked bacon or thyme for extra flavor.
  • For a thicker chowder, mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Fish?

Yes! Thaw the fish completely and pat it dry before adding it to the chowder.

What’s the Difference Between Evaporated Milk and Cream?

Evaporated milk has less fat than cream and contributes to the chowder’s creamy texture without making it overly rich.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store cooled chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Reviews and Community Praise

This Maine fish chowder has been a hit among seafood lovers and New Englanders alike:

• “It’s just like the chowder I had in Maine during our summer vacation!” – Sarah M.
• “The perfect balance of creamy and light. I’ll be making this again!” – John D.
• “Simple, quick, and so flavorful. My family loved it.” – Emily R.

Conclusion

This Maine fish chowder recipe combines tradition and simplicity for a meal that’s hearty, creamy, and deliciously satisfying. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dish that’s perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

Serve it with oyster crackers or homemade biscuits, and you’ll have a comforting meal that transports you straight to the rugged coasts of New England. Whether you’re hosting a seafood dinner or warming up on a chilly evening, this chowder is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.