New England Seafood Chowder

New England Seafood Chowder is a hearty, creamy soup that showcases the rich flavors of fresh seafood, such as clams, shrimp, or fish, combined with tender potatoes and a velvety broth. This comforting dish, a regional favorite, is perfect for warming up on a cool day or serving as an elegant starter for a dinner party. The key to its indulgent flavor lies in the creamy broth, enriched with butter and cream, and the subtle briny taste of seafood. Each spoonful offers a satisfying balance of savory, creamy, and ocean-fresh flavors, making this chowder a true taste of New England’s coastal charm.

Ingredients

• 1 lb mixed seafood (such as shrimp, clams, white fish, or scallops)
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups fish or seafood stock (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon drippings until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the potatoes and stock: Add the diced potatoes, seafood stock (or chicken broth), bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Cook the seafood: Stir in the mixed seafood and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the seafood is just cooked through.
5. Add the cream: Stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for a few minutes to warm the chowder through, but do not let it boil.
6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the chowder into bowls. Garnish with crispy bacon and fresh parsley.

This New England Seafood Chowder is rich, creamy, and full of seafood flavor, offering a comforting and satisfying bowl that transports you straight to the New England coast!