When you think of warm, comforting foods, chowder often comes to mind. One dish that stands out in this category is salmon chowder. This vibrant and hearty soup brings together the rich flavors of smoked salmon and fresh vegetables, offering a delightful blend that warms not only your body but your spirit too. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, perfect for any season whether it’s chilly outside or a cozy night in. With just the right mix of textures and flavors, this chowder is bound to become a family favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the details of making this scrumptious dish!
Why We Love This Salmon Chowder Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this salmon chowder! First and foremost, it’s packed with flavor. The smokiness of the salmon combined with the subtle sweetness of the carrots and the creamy texture make this chowder an irresistible option for dinner. Not only does it taste fantastic, but it also covers several important food groups— veggies, protein, and dairy, making it a well-rounded meal that you can feel good about serving.
Another reason to embrace this chowder is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a filling lunch or a light dinner. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad, making it suitable for any meal of the day. Plus, the ingredients are typically easy to find at your local grocery store, so you can whip this up whenever you crave something comforting. The cooking process allows you to enjoy the delightful aromas as it simmers on the stove, preparing your senses for a warm and inviting experience.
Ingredients for Salmon Chowder
Creating your salmon chowder requires a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp oil for cooking
- 3 small carrots, diced
- 1/2 celery stalk, diced
- 1/2 bunch of green onions, minced
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 3 qt water
- 1 tbsp Better Than Bouillon beef or chicken
- 1 large Yukon Gold potato, diced
- 1 lb smoked salmon, diced or chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp kosher salt, adjust to taste
These ingredients gather together to create a stunning dish that seamlessly melds flavors while offering a satisfying bite.
How to Make Salmon Chowder Directions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these step-by-step directions to make your delicious salmon chowder:
- Prep Your Ingredients: Start by dicing the carrots and celery into small cubes. These will be the foundation of your chowder. Mince the green onions and set them aside for later garnishing.
- Heat the Pot: Preheat your soup pot or Dutch oven with a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. This will ensure that your vegetables cook evenly.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Sauté them until they soften, which should take about 5 minutes. This step allows the natural sweetness of the vegetables to develop.
- Incorporate Flour and Spices: Sprinkle in the flour and red pepper flakes, stirring everything together. Cook this mixture for another couple of minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the flavors while getting rid of its raw taste.
- Add Liquid: Carefully pour in the water along with the Better Than Bouillon concentrate, and bring everything to a gentle boil. This will form the rich base for your chowder.
- Prepare the Potatoes and Salmon: While waiting for the mix to boil, dice your Yukon Gold potato and smoked salmon into small cubes. Once the broth reaches a boil, toss both the potatoes and smoked salmon into the pot.
- Cook the Chowder: Continue to simmer until the potatoes become tender, which usually takes around 10 minutes. Enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen.
- Finish It Off: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and bring the chowder back to a boil. As soon as it bubbles, remove it from the heat to prevent it from curdling.
- Season and Serve: Season the chowder with kosher salt to your liking. Remember to taste as you go! Garnish with fresh minced green onions before serving.
Savor every spoonful of your homemade salmon chowder!
How to Serve Salmon Chowder
Serving your salmon chowder can elevate the dining experience. Consider ladling it into warm bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can add a lovely pop of color.
Accompany your chowder with a side of crusty bread or a soft roll. This allows you to dip and soak up the delicious broth, making each bite even more enjoyable. If you want to add a hint of zest, squeeze a little lemon juice over the top right before serving.
For a lovely presentation, serving the chowder in individual bread bowls can impress your guests and make for a fun, interactive dining experience.
Expert Tips: Salmon Chowder
To ensure that your salmon chowder turns out perfectly, consider these expert tips:
- Choosing Salmon: Opt for high-quality smoked salmon. Its rich flavor enhances the chowder remarkably. You can also experiment with fresh salmon if you prefer a different taste profile but remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Texture Control: If you like a thicker chowder, add a little extra flour in the initial steps. Alternatively, if you prefer a brothier soup, feel free to add more water.
- Vegetable Variations: This chowder is very adaptable. Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like corn or peas for a colorful twist.
- Make Ahead: This chowder’s flavors improve as it sits, so consider making it a day in advance. Store it properly, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
How to Store Salmon Chowder
Proper storage of your salmon chowder is crucial for maintaining its flavors and freshness. Once the chowder cools to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the chowder. Portions it into freezer-safe containers, making it easy to thaw and reheat only what you need. It will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing the chowder with the cream if possible, as it can alter the texture once thawed.
Variations of Salmon Chowder
There are numerous ways you can customize your salmon chowder to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap out heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. This makes the chowder lighter and suitable for those avoiding dairy.
- Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce while it simmers.
- Vegetable Delight: Add in a variety of vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Not only do they add unique flavors, but they also boost the nutritional profile of the dish.
- Add Grain: Consider stirring in some cooked quinoa or rice for added texture and heartiness, transforming the chowder into a complete meal.
Now that you’re equipped with these variations, feel free to experiment and make the recipe your own!
FAQ About Salmon Chowder
What type of salmon is best for chowder?
Using high-quality smoked salmon is recommended as it provides a rich and smoky flavor that complements the chowder beautifully. However, fresh salmon can also be used, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I use frozen salmon in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it beforehand for even cooking and great texture.
How do I reheat leftover chowder?
Reheat your chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Can I freeze salmon chowder?
Absolutely! Just make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that chowder with dairy may have a different texture when thawed, but it will still taste delicious.
Salmon Chowder
Ingredients
For the chowder
- 1 tbsp oil for cooking Use your choice of cooking oil.
- 3 small carrots, diced
- 1/2 stalk celery, diced
- 1/2 bunch green onions, minced Reserve some for garnishing.
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust to taste for spice preference.
- 3 qt water
- 1 tbsp Better Than Bouillon beef or chicken
- 1 large Yukon Gold potato, diced
- 1 lb smoked salmon, diced or chopped Use high-quality smoked salmon for best flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream For richness.
- 1 tsp kosher salt Adjust to taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Dice the carrots and celery into small cubes. Mince the green onions and set them aside for later garnishing.
Cooking
- Preheat your soup pot or Dutch oven with a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the flour and red pepper flakes, stirring together. Cook for another few minutes to eliminate the raw taste of the flour.
- Carefully pour in the water and add the Better Than Bouillon, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Dice the Yukon Gold potato and the smoked salmon. Once the broth is boiling, add both to the pot.
- Simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy whipping cream and bring back to a boil briefly before removing from heat.
- Season with kosher salt to taste and garnish with minced green onions before serving.
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