Creamy Salmon Chowder Recipe: Ready in 30 Minutes
As the cool autumn breeze whispers through the trees, nothing warms your soul like a steaming bowl of creamy salmon chowder. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, this hearty soup was a staple in my family’s kitchen. It brought back memories of cozy gatherings and the comforting flavors of the region.
Now, I’m excited to share this quick and easy salmon chowder recipe with you. It’s perfect for satisfying your appetite and nourishing your body in just 30 minutes.
This creamy salmon chowder is a true delight. It blends rich, flavorful salmon with fresh vegetables and a silky broth. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal on a chilly evening or seeking a satisfying lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Table of Contents
Why This Northwest-Style Salmon Chowder Is Perfect for You
If you enjoy the creamy taste of northwest chowder and like the flexibility of seafood bisque, you’ll love this smoked salmon chowder. It comes from the Pacific Northwest and combines hearty flavors. It’s great for busy cooks who want a comforting meal.
Time-Saving Benefits
This salmon chowder is quick to make. It takes only 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. You can have a tasty meal in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying dinner.
One-Pot Meal Convenience
This northwest chowder is also a one-pot wonder. It’s made in one pot, which means less cleanup. This makes it easy to add to your meal plan without the extra work of cleaning up.
Year-Round Comfort Food
This smoked salmon chowder is good any time of the year. It’s warm and cozy for winter nights or a refreshing seafood dish for summer. Its mix of tender salmon, creamy broth, and vegetables is comforting all year.
If you’re after a northwest chowder that’s quick, easy, and comforting, this smoked salmon chowder is ideal. It meets all your culinary needs.
Essential Ingredients for Salmon Chowder Recipe
Making the perfect salmon chowder starts with picking the right ingredients. You’ll need savory bacon and fresh salmon. Each part is key to the rich, creamy, and chunky seafood stew taste. Let’s look at the main ingredients for this cozy dish.
The base of this chowder is 8 oz of crispy bacon. It adds a smoky and salty flavor. You’ll also need 3-4 medium shallots, finely chopped, and 2 ribs of celery, diced, for the aroma.
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour is crucial for thickening. It makes the chowder creamy. To balance it, use 1 cup of clam juice and 3 cups of whole milk.
Diced 1 pound of new potatoes and 1 cup of sweet corn add the vegetable part. 1 pound of fresh salmon, without bones or skin, gives the main seafood flavor. Remember to add garlic and jalapeño for more flavor and a bit of heat.
Finally, fresh dill is the perfect garnish. It brings all the flavors together for a great salmon chowder experience.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bacon | 8 oz |
| Shallots | 3-4 medium |
| Celery | 2 ribs |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Clam juice | 1 cup |
| Whole milk | 3 cups |
| New potatoes | 1 pound |
| Sweet corn | 1 cup |
| Salmon | 1 pound |
| Garlic | As needed |
| Jalapeño | As needed |
| Dill | As needed |
“The secret to a truly exceptional salmon chowder lies in the carefully selected and balanced ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect blend of flavors and textures.”
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty fish chowder or creamy seafood soup, you need the right tools. Here’s a list of must-haves for a smooth cooking process:
Recommended Pot Types
A large, heavy-duty stockpot or Dutch oven is best for fish chowder. These pots spread heat evenly, blending flavors well. Choose one with at least 6 quarts to hold all your ingredients.
Essential Utensils
- A sharp chef’s knife for dicing veggies and cutting salmon
- A wooden spoon or sturdy spatula for stirring
- A ladle for serving the chowder
- A slotted spoon for removing cooked bacon
Optional Equipment
While not essential, these tools can help:
- A microplane grater for grating garlic and aromatics
- A mandoline slicer for thin vegetable slices
- A sturdy cutting board for chopping
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate amounts
With the right tools, you’ll make a delicious fish chowder or seafood soup. Your family and friends will love it.
Preparation and Cooking Techniques
To make the perfect salmon corn chowder, pay close attention to every step. Start by cutting the bacon into small pieces and cooking it until it’s crispy. This step is important because it makes the bacon fat, which adds a lot of flavor to your chowder.
Next, chop the onions and mince the garlic. Then, sauté them in the bacon fat until they’re soft. This creates a rich base for your chowder.
For the vegetables, cut the potatoes into 1/4-inch cubes for even cooking. Slice the carrots thinly. After the onions and garlic are soft, add flour to make a roux. This thickens the chowder. Slowly add the chicken stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
| Technique | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chopping bacon | Render bacon fat for flavor base |
| Dicing onions and mincing garlic | Sauté for aromatic base |
| Cubing potatoes into 1/4-inch pieces | Ensure quick, even cooking |
| Creating a roux with flour | Thicken the chowder |
| Gently simmering the chowder | Develop flavors and maintain consistency |
| Adding salmon at the end | Keep the fish tender and in large chunks |
As the chowder cooks, the potatoes and carrots will soften. Now, add the seafood bisque-inspired ingredients: canned salmon, half-and-half, and frozen corn. Stir the salmon gently to keep it in big chunks. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.
It’s important not to let the chowder boil too hard. This can break the salmon and make the chowder too thick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Make this creamy salmon chowder recipe in just 30 minutes. It’s a comforting seafood soup. Start by cooking crispy bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven. Once it’s crispy, remove it and set it aside. Keep the bacon fat in the pot for sautéing vegetables.
Preparing the Base
In the bacon fat, sauté the onions, celery, and carrots until they’re soft and fragrant. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Then, add all-purpose flour to make a roux, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the clam juice and milk slowly, whisking to avoid lumps. Add diced potatoes and simmer until they’re tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Adding the Salmon
When the potatoes are done, add the creamy seafood soup ingredients – salmon and cream-style corn. Cook for 2-3 minutes more. This ensures the salmon is cooked and flakes easily.
Final Seasoning
Season the chowder with salt and black pepper to taste. Top it with crumbled bacon and garnish with fresh dill or chives if you like. Serve the salmon chowder recipe hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a cozy meal.
With a few easy steps, you can enjoy this delicious creamy salmon chowder recipe whenever you want. It’s a cozy seafood soup with tender salmon, potatoes, and a rich broth.
Tips for Perfect Salmon Selection and Preparation
Choosing the right salmon is key for a great salmon soup or fish chowder. Go for fresh salmon filets or salmon collars/scrap from your fishmonger. Both Atlantic and sockeye salmon are perfect for this recipe.
Make sure to remove all pin bones and skin before adding the salmon. Cut it into 1/2-inch chunks for even cooking. Add the salmon at the end of simmering to avoid overcooking. Cook it for a few minutes before serving your salmon soup or fish chowder.
Follow these tips to make a salmon soup or fish chowder that highlights the salmon’s fresh taste. You’ll create a comforting dish that will wow your loved ones.
Customization Options and Variations
This northwest chowder recipe is very versatile. You can make it dairy-free, adjust the spice, or add more veggies. It’s easy to make this smoked salmon chowder your own.
Dairy-Free Alternatives
For a lactose-free version, use chicken broth instead of milk. This makes the chowder thicker and heartier. But the salmon’s rich flavor still comes through.
Spice Level Adjustments
Change the heat by adding more jalapeño or red pepper flakes. Try different spice mixes to find your favorite warmth and coziness.
Vegetable Add-ins
Add extra veggies for more nutrition and texture. Carrots, parsnips, or leeks are great. Fresh herbs like thyme or chives add flavor. Start with butter instead of bacon for a pork-free version.
Try smoked salmon for a unique taste. Or mix in shrimp or white fish for a seafood chowder.
Customizing this northwest chowder recipe makes a comforting dish. It’s perfect for any time.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Your delicious salmon chowder recipe can be stored and reheated for easy leftovers. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remember, the salmon might start to break down after 3 days, so enjoy it within that time.
To reheat your chowder, use the stovetop. Simmer it over low heat, adding water or milk if it’s too thick. Don’t use the microwave, as it can mess with the salmon’s texture. When reheating, make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it tender.
Freezing is not the best option for this chowder. Freezing can change the texture and quality of the dish. For the best taste and texture, eat it within 3 days for maximum freshness.