Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder

Picture this: a steaming bowl of rich, creamy chowder, brimming with tender chunks of seafood, vegetables, and just the right amount of seasoning. The aroma alone will transport you to the rugged coastlines of Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s packed with the freshest catch, creamy goodness, and flavors that will make you feel like you’re dining by the sea, no matter where you are. Trust me, this is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make over and over again—it’s pure comfort in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder

This chowder is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

Rich and Creamy

The combination of creamy broth and tender seafood is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence.

Fresh Seafood

With a mix of shrimp, scallops, and fish, this chowder celebrates the best of the sea. The seafood adds a beautiful depth of flavor that makes every spoonful unforgettable.

Hearty and Filling

With potatoes and vegetables making up the base, this chowder is hearty enough to be a meal on its own. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or when you need something warm to fuel you through a chilly day.

Versatile

You can adjust the seafood and veggies to suit your taste or what’s available. Plus, it’s just as delicious whether you’re serving it for a fancy dinner or a laid-back weekend lunch.

A Taste of the Coast

If you’ve ever visited the coast of Nova Scotia, you know that seafood chowder is a must-try. Now, you can bring that taste into your kitchen with this authentic, flavorful recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this coastal favorite:

• Shrimp: The sweet, delicate flavor of shrimp makes it a star ingredient in this chowder.
• Scallops: Tender scallops provide a wonderful texture and a slight sweetness to the chowder.
• White Fish (e.g., cod or haddock): Mild, flaky fish adds a solid foundation to the chowder and soaks up the rich broth.
• Potatoes: These hearty vegetables make the chowder filling and give it a nice texture.
• Carrots: Sweet and slightly earthy, carrots complement the seafood and add a pop of color.
• Celery: For that fresh, crisp bite that balances the richness of the chowder.
• Onions: A classic base flavor that helps build the savory foundation of the chowder.
• Garlic: Adds an aromatic, savory depth to the dish.
• Chicken or Seafood Broth: The base liquid for the chowder, giving it that comforting, rich flavor.
• Heavy Cream: This gives the chowder its luxurious, creamy consistency.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to release their flavors.
• Bay Leaves: For an extra layer of savory, aromatic flavor.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a subtle earthiness that complements the seafood.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, bringing all the flavors together.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly above.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on this warm, creamy seafood chowder that’ll have your kitchen smelling incredible.

Sauté the Veggies

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant. This step is key to developing the base flavors of the chowder.

Add Broth and Potatoes

Once the vegetables are softened, add the potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and chicken or seafood broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Add the Seafood

Next, gently add the shrimp, scallops, and fish to the pot. Stir gently to combine, and let the seafood cook for 4-5 minutes, or until it’s just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the seafood—tender is the goal here!

Stir in the Cream

Once the seafood is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the chowder simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Season to Taste

Taste the chowder and add salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a bit more depth, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is perfectly combined and heated through, remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy the taste of Nova Scotia in the comfort of your home!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6-8
Calories per serving: 300-350 calories (depending on portion size)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder

This chowder is the perfect dish to enjoy on its own or paired with a few sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Fresh Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to dip into the creamy broth.
• Green Salad: Pair with a fresh, crisp salad to balance out the richness of the chowder. A simple vinaigrette works wonderfully.
• Cornbread: For a hearty, comforting meal, serve alongside a slice of cornbread.
• Sherry or White Wine: A glass of dry white wine or a splash of sherry can be a perfect pairing for this rich and creamy chowder.

Additional Tips

Here are a few helpful tips to make your chowder even better:

Use Fresh Seafood

For the best flavor, try to use fresh seafood. If that’s not available, frozen seafood works as well—just make sure to thaw it properly before adding it to the chowder.

Adjust the Thickness

If you prefer a thicker chowder, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken the broth. If you like it a bit lighter, you can add extra broth or even a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.

Make It Ahead of Time

This chowder can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors actually develop more as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Just reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the seafood.

Freeze Leftovers

If you have leftovers, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the seafood may change slightly after freezing, but it’ll still taste great!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use different types of seafood?

A1: Yes! Feel free to mix and match based on what’s available. Clams, mussels, lobster, or crab would be great additions to this chowder.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

A2: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind, the chowder will be less rich, but still delicious.

Q3: Can I use frozen seafood?

A3: Yes, frozen seafood works just as well! Be sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the chowder for the best results.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat.

Q5: Can I freeze the chowder?

A5: Yes! You can freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. Just remember that the texture of the seafood may change a bit after freezing, but it will still taste amazing when reheated.

Q6: Can I make this chowder spicier?

A6: Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some red pepper flakes to kick up the heat if you like things spicy.

Q7: How can I make this dish more filling?

A7: To make it even heartier, you can add some cooked rice or pasta to the chowder. It’ll make the dish more substantial and satisfying.

Q8: Can I make this chowder without potatoes?

A8: Yes! If you’re looking to skip the potatoes, you can add extra vegetables like leeks, parsnips, or corn to thicken the chowder and still give it that comforting texture.

Q9: How do I know when the seafood is cooked?

A9: Seafood cooks quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on it. Shrimp will turn pink, scallops will be opaque, and fish will easily flake apart with a fork.

Q10: What should I serve this chowder with?

A10: Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder pairs perfectly with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy with a glass of dry white wine or a crisp beer!

Conclusion

This Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder is the kind of recipe that brings the flavor of the coast straight to your kitchen. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with the freshest seafood flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself, this chowder is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead—dive into this delicious bowl of coastal goodness!

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