There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of hearty chowder, especially when it’s as simple and delicious as a classic fish chowder. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a home cooking novice, a simple fish chowder recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and ease of preparation. Originating from coastal regions, this dish has become a staple in many kitchens worldwide, thanks to its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to create a simple fish chowder that’s as flavorful as it is easy to make, using ingredients like haddock, potatoes, and carrots, and discover how to elevate your recipe with just a few thoughtful tweaks. From the basics to creative variations, we’ve got you covered!

The Simplest Fish Chowder Recipe

• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup peeled and diced potatoes
• 1 cup fish fillets (cod, haddock, or salmon)
• 4 cups fish broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1 teaspoon thyme or bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a splash of sherry or white wine

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes and fish fillets to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
3. Pour in the fish broth, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional sherry or wine. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Mix in the heavy cream or milk and heat through. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

What is the simplest way to make fish chowder?

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish? Our simple fish chowder recipe is perfect for anyone who loves hearty, comforting soups without the hassle. Follow these straightforward steps to create a flavorful chowder that will warm your heart and satisfy your appetite.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Fish : Fresh or frozen (such as cod, haddock, or salmon)
• Potatoes : Peeled and cubed
• Vegetables : Onions, carrots, celery, diced
• Broth : Chicken or vegetable broth
• Herbs : Thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper
• Optional : White wine, milk, or cream for extra richness

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Fish : Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil, then season the fish with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10-15 minutes on each side until it flakes easily. Remove and set aside.
2. Boil Potatoes : In a separate pot, boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until just tender, around 12-15 minutes.
3. Sauté Vegetables : In the same skillet used for the fish, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Add a bit more oil if needed.
4. Combine Ingredients : Transfer the cooked fish, potatoes, and sautéed vegetables into a large pot. Pour in broth, stir in herbs, and bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer : Let the chowder simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Adjust Seasoning : Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Serve : Ladle the chowder into bowls. Garnish with parsley or green onions for a fresh touch. Serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips:

• For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the chowder before adding back in.
• Adjust spices according to your preference for a personalized taste.
• Vary the vegetables by using broccoli, peas, or corn for added variety.
• Try using different types of fish, such as salmon or shrimp, for a unique twist.
• If the chowder seems too thin, mix a tablespoon of flour with a little cold water and stir it in towards the end to thicken it.

Enjoy your simple fish chowder knowing it’s quick, easy, and packed with delicious flavors! Don’t forget to visit our seafood recipes hub for more inspiring dishes.

What Ingredients Make the Simplest Fish Chowder Recipe?

The simplest fish chowder recipe typically uses a few key ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying stew. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:

1. Fish : Choose a mild-flavored, white-fleshed fish like cod, haddock, or pollock. These fish are readily available and won’t overpower the dish with a strong taste.
2. Broth : Use a good-quality chicken broth as the base. For a richer taste, you can opt for fish broth or a combination of water and concentrated bouillon cubes.
3. Vegetables : Include diced onion, carrots, and celery for a sweet and earthy flavor. Potatoes, particularly Yukon Gold, are a great choice as they cook well and thicken the chowder nicely.
4. Garlic : Add minced garlic for a subtle aromatic touch that complements the fish and vegetables.
5. Seasonings : Salt and pepper are essential for balancing the flavors. A bay leaf adds a herby note, while optional additions like thyme or a pinch of cayenne pepper can offer extra depth.
6. Optional Enhancements : For a creamier texture, a small piece of butter can be melted into the pot. Milk or heavy cream can also be stirred in, though it’s not necessary for a traditional chowder.

This combination ensures a delicious and hearty chowder with minimal effort and ingredients.

What Ingredients Make the Simplest Fish Chowder Recipe?

The simplest fish chowder recipe typically uses a few key ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying stew. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:

1. Fish : Choose a mild-flavored, white-fleshed fish like cod, haddock, or pollock. These fish are readily available and won’t overpower the dish with a strong taste.
2. Broth : Use a good-quality chicken broth as the base. For a richer taste, you can opt for fish broth or a combination of water and concentrated bouillon cubes.
3. Vegetables : Include diced onion, carrots, and celery for a sweet and earthy flavor. Potatoes, particularly Yukon Gold, are a great choice as they cook well and thicken the chowder nicely.
4. Garlic : Add minced garlic for a subtle aromatic touch that complements the fish and vegetables.
5. Seasonings : Salt and pepper are essential for balancing the flavors. A bay leaf adds a herby note, while optional additions like thyme or a pinch of cayenne pepper can offer extra depth.
6. Optional Enhancements : For a creamier texture, a small piece of butter can be melted into the pot. Milk or heavy cream can also be stirred in, though it’s not necessary for a traditional chowder.

This combination ensures a delicious and hearty chowder with minimal effort and ingredients.

What’s the Most Straightforward Way to Prepare a Simple Fish Chowder?

To craft a simple yet flavorful fish chowder, follow these easy steps:

1. Ingredients :
2. 2 cups water or fish stock
3. 1 medium onion, finely chopped
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 cup diced potatoes
6. 1 cup fresh or frozen fish fillets (cod, haddock, or salmon)
7. 1 teaspoon salt
8. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
9. 1 tablespoon butter
10. 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
11. Optional: bay leaf, thyme, or cayenne pepper for added flavor
12. Instructions :
13. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
14. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
15. Stir in diced potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
16. Pour in water or fish stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
17. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
18. Add fish fillets to the pot, poach until cooked through (about 3-5 minutes depending on thickness).
19. Remove from pot and set aside.
20. Creamy Touch :
21. Melt remaining butter in the pot.
22. Stir in heavy cream or milk, allowing it to thicken slightly.
23. Return cooked fish to the pot, gently stirring to combine.
24. Optionally, add herbs like bay leaf or thyme for extra flavor.
25. Serve :
26. Enjoy your chowder hot and steaming, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges.
27. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a hearty meal.

For more seafood-inspired recipes, check out our complete guide to fish chowder or explore our collection of seafood dishes .

This method ensures a rich, creamy texture while keeping it simple and delicious.

What Makes a Simple Fish Chowder Recipe Delicious?

A simple yet flavorful fish chowder recipe relies on a few key ingredients and techniques to achieve its rich, satisfying taste. Here’s a breakdown of what makes it truly delicious:

1. Fresh, High-Quality Fish : The foundation of any great chowder starts with fresh, sustainably sourced fish. Species like cod, haddock, or pollock are excellent choices for their mild flavor and tenderness.
2. Rich and Flavorful Broth : A well-seasoned broth is essential. Using a combination of butter and olive oil adds depth, while sautéed onions, celery, and garlic contribute a sweet and savory base.
3. Creamy Potatoes : Waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold, are ideal for chowder due to their ability to thicken the soup without becoming mushy. They also add a comforting creaminess.
4. Milk or Cream : Whole milk or heavy cream provides richness, while a splash of vinegar or lemon juice balances the fat and brightens the flavors.
5. Flour for Thicker Texture : A small amount of all-purpose flour acts as a thickening agent, preventing the chowder from being too watery.
6. Herbs and Spices : Bay leaves, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne or paprika add complexity. Fresh parsley or coriander at the end enhances the dish with a refreshing note.
7. Cooking Technique : Proper sautéing of vegetables ensures they’re tender and flavorful. Cooking the fish just until it’s flaky ensures it stays moist and doesn’t overpower the broth.
8. Simmering Time : Allow the chowder to simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to soften perfectly.
9. Chilling Before Serving : Refrigerating the chowder overnight allows the flavors to develop further, enhancing its taste.

By focusing on these elements, you can create a chowder that’s hearty, flavorful, and truly memorable.