Scallop Chowder Recipe: A Deliciously Creamy Comfort Food
When the weather is chilly, nothing beats the warm, comforting bowl of a creamy Scallop Chowder. A hearty dish that combines tender scallops, rich broth, and creamy textures, this chowder is perfect for those cozy nights in. The flavors are a beautiful balance of sweet seafood and savory ingredients, making it a hit for any special occasion or just a satisfying meal at home. Here’s how to make this amazing Scallop Chowder!
Ingredients for Scallop Chowder Recipe
For this delicious Scallop Chowder, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Fresh Scallops – 1 lb (about 500 grams), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive Oil – 2 tbsp
- Butter – 2 tbsp
- Yellow Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Celery – 2 stalks, diced
- Carrot – 1 medium, peeled and diced
- Potatoes – 2 medium, peeled and diced
- Chicken Broth – 3 cups
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup
- Whole Milk – 1 cup
- Fresh Thyme – 1 tsp
- Bay Leaves – 2
- Salt – To taste
- Black Pepper – To taste
- Fresh Parsley – For garnish (optional)
Instructions for Scallop Chowder
- Prepare the Scallops: Begin by rinsing the scallops under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Cut them into bite-sized pieces if they’re not already pre-cut.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes, and then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the Cream and Milk: Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the heavy cream, whole milk, thyme, and bay leaves. Continue simmering the chowder for an additional 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Cook the Scallops: Gently add the prepared scallops to the chowder, cooking them in the simmering soup for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as scallops can become tough if cooked too long.
- Season the Chowder: Taste the chowder and add salt and pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- Fresh vs. Frozen Scallops: Fresh scallops are ideal for this recipe, as they provide a sweeter and more tender texture. However, if fresh scallops are unavailable, frozen scallops can work as well. Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained before adding them to the chowder.
- Make it Spicy: For a slight kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when seasoning the chowder.
- Thicken the Chowder: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream to give it a richer, creamier texture.
Time and Serving
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serving Size: This recipe makes about 4 servings, depending on portion sizes.
Storage and Leftovers
This Scallop Chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to meld overnight, so it tastes even better the next day! Reheat gently over low heat. For longer storage, you can freeze the chowder for up to 1 month, though the scallops may lose some of their texture after freezing.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 23g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
[cal_calc]
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect
- Use Fresh Scallops: Fresh scallops will provide the best flavor and texture. However, if using frozen scallops, make sure they are thawed and excess water is drained.
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, try making your own chicken broth for a deeper, more complex flavor in the chowder.
- Make it Vegetarian: If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the scallops and add more vegetables like corn, peas, or mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.
How to Serve
Scallop Chowder pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For an added touch of elegance, you could serve it as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a cozy, comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven – For cooking the chowder.
- Cutting Board and Knife – To chop the vegetables and scallops.
- Wooden Spoon – For stirring the chowder.
- Ladle – To serve the chowder into bowls.
Health Benefits of Scallop Chowder
- High in Protein: Scallops are a lean source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, and supporting muscle growth.
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Scallops contain omega-3s, which support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation.
- Full of Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables in this chowder, such as carrots and celery, are packed with vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and potassium.
FAQs about Scallop Chowder Recipe
- Can I use other types of seafood instead of scallops?
- Yes! You can substitute scallops with shrimp, clams, or even crab for a different take on this chowder.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the chowder ahead of time and store it in the fridge. The flavors actually improve after a day or two!
- Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
- Yes! You can use coconut milk or almond milk as a substitute for the heavy cream and milk, and use dairy-free butter to make it dairy-free.
- What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
- If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme works just as well. Use about 1/3 of the amount if using dried thyme.
- Can I freeze this chowder?
- Yes, you can freeze the chowder. Just make sure to leave out the scallops and add them fresh when reheating, as freezing can affect their texture.
Final Thoughts
Scallop Chowder is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. The sweet, tender scallops paired with the rich, flavorful broth create a dish that’s satisfying without being heavy. With easy-to-follow instructions and plenty of tips for customizing, you can make this chowder your own. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress anyone at the table, and it’s perfect for any occasion!
