Hearty and Delicious Salmon Chowder Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the thyme and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir to combine with the vegetables.
  3. Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir to mix them with the vegetables and spices.
  4. Pour the broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, salmon, corn, and bell pepper. Continue to simmer the soup until the salmon is cooked through, about 10 minutes.
  6. Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Before serving, sprinkle the chowder with chopped fresh dill.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Used to cook the chowder and hold all the ingredients.
  • Stirring spoon - Used to stir the ingredients while cooking.
  • Knife - Needed to chop the onion, celery, garlic, and fresh dill.
  • Cutting board - Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Used to accurately measure the thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  • Peeler - Required to peel the potatoes.
  • Soup ladle - Used to serve the chowder into bowls.

Recipe variations

  • Use smoked salmon instead of fresh salmon for a smoky flavor.
  • Add cooked bacon or pancetta for an extra savory twist.
  • Include other seafood such as shrimp or clams to make it a seafood chowder.
  • Replace the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
  • Make it a vegetarian version by omitting the salmon and using vegetable broth.
  • Add chopped leeks or fennel for additional depth of flavor.
  • Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or tarragon.
  • Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  • Garnish with grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, for added richness.
  • Include diced carrots or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Recipe overview

This wholesome and hearty Salmon Chowder recipe is a comforting dish perfect for cold days or whenever you're in need of a satisfying meal. It's made with a base of savory broth, heavy cream, and tender potatoes, then loaded with fresh salmon, corn, and bell pepper for a healthy dose of protein and vegetables. The chowder is seasoned with thyme, cayenne pepper, and fresh dill, giving it a burst of flavor in every spoonful. Expect a creamy, flavorful chowder packed with nutrients in just under an hour of cooking time. It's an easy-to-make dish that's sure to please everyone at your table.

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen salmon instead of fresh salmon? Yes, you can use frozen salmon for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cutting it into cubes and adding it to the chowder.
  2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative? Yes, if you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. However, keep in mind that it may affect the richness and creaminess of the chowder.
  3. Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme? Yes, you can use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme. However, since dried herbs are more concentrated, you will only need 1/3 of the amount specified for fresh thyme. So, use 1/3 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme.
  4. Can I omit or substitute any of the vegetables? Yes, you can customize the chowder to your liking. If you don't prefer celery or bell peppers, you can omit them or replace them with other vegetables of your choice, such as carrots or leeks.
  5. How can I store the leftover chowder? Allow the chowder to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the onion, celery, garlic, and salmon.
  • Large pot - A pot big enough to hold all the ingredients and simmer the chowder.
  • Wooden spoon - A spoon for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring spoons - Utensils for accurately measuring the thyme, cayenne pepper, and dill.
  • Peeler - A tool for peeling the potatoes.
  • Soup ladle - A ladle for serving the chowder into bowls.
  • Soup bowls - Deep bowls for serving the salmon chowder.
  • Garnish bowls - Small bowls for holding the fresh dill garnish.

Origin stories

Chowder has a rich history that spans continents. Originating from the fishing villages along the coast of France and England, chowder made its way to the New World with early settlers, where it evolved into the much-loved comfort food we know today. It's a versatile dish that reflects the bounty of the sea, with recipes changing based on what was available. The use of salmon, in particular, pays homage to the Pacific Northwest, where salmon is abundant. Over time, regional variations developed, including the thick and creamy New England style chowder, the tomato-based Manhattan chowder, and our hearty and nutritious salmon chowder. So, when you're enjoying a bowl of salmon chowder, you're not only savouring a delicious meal, but also partaking in a culinary tradition that spans centuries and continents.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.