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Salmon Chowder Recipe

4.7 from 103 reviews

Salmon Chowder is a hearty and comforting soup combining tender chunks of salmon with a creamy broth enriched by potatoes, corn, and a classic mirepoix base of onion, celery, and carrot. This classic dish offers a delicate balance of rich seafood flavor and velvety texture, perfect for warming meals and adaptable to a variety of tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/2 cup carrot, diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 pound salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, forming the base flavors of the chowder.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned, enhancing the aromatic profile.
  3. Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring well to combine the liquids with the sautéed vegetables, creating the creamy chowder base.
  4. Cook Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Cook Salmon and Corn: Gently add the salmon chunks and corn kernels to the pot. Continue simmering gently for 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and is cooked through without overcooking.
  6. Season: Stir in the fresh thyme, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning carefully to enhance the flavors without overpowering the delicate salmon.
  7. Add Optional Garnishes: If desired, stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for brightness and sprinkle fresh parsley over the chowder before serving to add a fresh, herbal note and vibrant color.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond or oat milk and omit any cheese if added.
  • Fresh salmon is recommended over canned for best flavor and texture.
  • To add depth, consider a splash of white wine or a dash of liquid smoke when adding liquids.
  • This chowder can be thickened with a cornstarch slurry or roux if a creamier texture is preferred.
  • Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal.
  • Leftovers taste better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully.

Keywords: salmon chowder, creamy salmon soup, seafood chowder, easy chowder recipe, comfort food, dinner soup, New England style chowder