Decadent Seafood Chowder: A Rich and Creamy Delight

This Decadent Seafood Chowder is a mouthwatering blend of fresh seafood, creamy broth, and flavorful herbs. The rich and velvety texture makes it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its combination of succulent shrimp, tender clams, and delicate fish, this chowder will surely impress your guests and satisfy your seafood cravings. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and hearty meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb clams, scrubbed and soaked in cold water
• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia), cut into chunks
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups chicken or seafood broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add butter and melt it over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
3. Add the potatoes, bay leaf, dried thyme, and paprika to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
4. Pour in the chicken or seafood broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, cook the shrimp until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
6. In the same pan, cook the clams with a splash of water until they open. Discard any clams that remain closed. Remove the clams from the pan, discard the shells, and set aside.
7. Add the fish fillets to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they are cooked through and flake easily with a fork.
8. While the fish is cooking, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and all-purpose flour in a bowl until well combined.
9. Pour the cream mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to incorporate it into the broth. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the chowder thickens.
10. Add the cooked shrimp, clams, and crispy bacon to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together gently.
11. Simmer the chowder for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
12. Serve the Decadent Seafood Chowder hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, and accompanied by crusty bread.
13. Enjoy the luxurious and comforting flavors of this decadent seafood chowder!

Interesting Facts