Smoked Salmon Chowder

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Smoked Salmon Chowder offers the best of both worlds – indulgent comfort food with a gourmet twist. The smokiness of the salmon adds depth to the creamy, flavorful broth, while the potatoes and corn give it a satisfying, hearty texture. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special dinner party. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. The balance of rich, smoky flavors and light, fresh ingredients makes this chowder a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 8 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill, chopped (optional for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added brightness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced potatoes and corn, then pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Once the potatoes are soft, add the heavy cream and milk. Stir well to combine.
5. Flake the smoked salmon into bite-sized pieces and add it to the soup. Stir to incorporate the salmon throughout the chowder.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using) to taste.
7. Simmer the chowder for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh dill, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the smoked salmon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter, vegetarian version of this chowder.
• Add More Vegetables: Consider adding diced carrots, celery, or leeks for added flavor and texture.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the chowder a bit of heat.
• Different Seafood: Swap the smoked salmon for other smoked fish like trout or mackerel, or even shrimp for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover smoked salmon chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While the texture of the cream may change slightly, this chowder can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, cool the soup completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, add a bit of milk or cream to thin it out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fish in this chowder?

Yes, you can substitute smoked trout, mackerel, or even cooked shrimp for the smoked salmon to suit your preference.

2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make the chowder dairy-free, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and substitute a plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, for the regular milk.

3. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, canned corn works fine. Just be sure to drain and rinse it before adding it to the chowder.

4. Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Yes, this chowder can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

5. Can I use chicken stock instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, chicken stock is a great substitute for vegetable broth if you prefer a richer flavor.

6. Is this chowder gluten-free?

Yes, this Smoked Salmon Chowder is gluten-free, as long as you ensure your broth and any other ingredients you use do not contain gluten.

7. How can I thicken the chowder if it’s too thin?

If the chowder is too thin, you can mash some of the potatoes to naturally thicken the soup. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to help thicken it.

8. Can I use frozen smoked salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen smoked salmon will work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before flaking it into the soup.

9. How can I make this chowder spicier?

To add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even a finely chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.

10. Can I add other vegetables to this chowder?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like celery, carrots, or leeks for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Smoked Salmon Chowder is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the richness of smoked fish with a creamy, hearty base. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s an easy yet elegant choice for any meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this chowder is sure to impress with its delicious depth of flavor. Enjoy it on its own or with a side of crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal!