If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender chunks of fresh salmon, creamy potatoes, and delicate herbs, this chowder balances rich, savory flavors with a comforting texture that’s just downright irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress friends, this chowder promises to deliver satisfaction in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component works together to create layers of flavor and texture, from the flaky salmon and creamy potatoes to the aromatic herbs and milky richness.
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet: Choose skinless salmon for tender chunks that poach beautifully in the chowder.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: Adds a silky base and helps mellow the onions during sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Builds a savory foundation with gentle sweetness after cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a subtle punch of flavor that enhances the chowder’s depth.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Introduces a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides an aromatic crunch that balances the creamy broth.
- 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes thicken the chowder naturally.
- 4 cups low-sodium fish stock or chicken broth: Lends a flavorful yet light base, letting the ingredients shine.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds smoothness and creaminess to the chowder’s body.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Elevates the texture, making every spoonful luscious and rich.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses the chowder with subtle herbal notes during simmering.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh): Offers fresh earthiness that pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: This bright herb adds a burst of freshness to finish the chowder.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional): A touch of acidity to brighten and awaken the flavors.
How to Make Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming your olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onions and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling. This step builds the savory backbone for your chowder.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Vegetables
Next, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Let them cook together for around 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften, releasing their natural sweetness and deepening the chowder’s flavor.
Step 3: Incorporate Potatoes and Herbs
Time for the heartiness. Add your cubed Yukon Gold potatoes, the bay leaf, and thyme, then pour in the fish stock or chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil so the potatoes begin cooking and soak up aromatic goodness.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let the chowder cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender and perfect for mashing slightly in the next steps.
Step 5: Stir in Milk and Cream
Once the potatoes are just right, pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Lower the heat and allow it to gently simmer for about 5 minutes; avoid boiling so the dairy stays lovely and smooth.
Step 6: Poach the Salmon
Add the salmon chunks into the pot, cover it, and let them delicately poach for 5 to 7 minutes. This method keeps the salmon moist and flaky without overcooking.
Step 7: Season and Rest
Now comes the fun part—season your chowder with salt, freshly ground black pepper, chopped dill, and that optional squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Let the chowder rest for a few minutes, allowing flavors to blend beautifully before serving.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe into bowls, garnish it with fresh dill, and don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy goodness.
How to Serve Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped dill is classic and fresh, adding a lovely color contrast and herbal zing. You can also top with a swirl of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra creaminess, or a pinch of smoked paprika to introduce a subtle smoky note.
Side Dishes
Pair this chowder with crusty artisan bread or buttery garlic toast for dunking. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully, balancing the meal with crisp freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic touch, serve the chowder straight from a cast-iron pot at the table to keep it warm and inviting. Or, if you’re aiming to impress, ladle the chowder into hollowed-out mini sourdough loaves—such a charming way to present your Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your chowder to an airtight container and pop it into the fridge. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for convenient weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze your Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe, but keep in mind that the potatoes might soften a bit more upon thawing. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your chowder slowly on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the milk and cream from separating. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or broth if the chowder thickens too much while warming.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding to the chowder to avoid extra moisture.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or a nut-based cream alternative for a delicious dairy-free twist. Keep in mind it will subtly change the flavor profile.
Can I add other seafood to the chowder?
Definitely! Shrimp or scallops can be added along with or instead of salmon for variety, just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
How thick should my chowder be?
The chowder should be creamy but not overly thick—think of a hearty soup consistency that’s perfect for spooning. If it’s too thick, add a bit more stock or milk; if too thin, let it simmer uncovered briefly to reduce.
What’s the best way to get flaky salmon in the chowder?
Poaching the salmon gently in the chowder liquid with the lid on, as described in the recipe, helps keep it moist and flaky without breaking apart too much.
Final Thoughts
This Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe is one of those dishes that not only fills your belly but also wraps you in comfort and warmth. Each spoonful feels like a cozy embrace, perfect for any day you want to treat yourself or your loved ones. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite chowder!
Print
Cozy Salmon Chowder Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cozy Salmon Chowder is a comforting and creamy soup featuring tender chunks of fresh salmon simmered with hearty potatoes, carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs. This chowder balances rich creaminess with fresh dill and a hint of lemon, making it a perfect warm meal for chilly days.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into chunks
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups low-sodium fish stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté onions: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add potatoes and seasonings: Add the cubed potatoes, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Pour in the fish stock or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the chowder: Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Add milk and cream: Stir in the whole milk and heavy cream. Lower the heat and let the chowder simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes without boiling.
- Poach the salmon: Add the salmon chunks to the pot, cover, and let them poach for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through.
- Season the chowder: Season with salt, black pepper, chopped fresh dill, and optional lemon juice. Let the chowder rest for a few minutes to develop flavors.
- Serve hot: Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired, alongside crusty bread for a complete comforting meal.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use butter instead of olive oil to sauté the vegetables.
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding the milk and cream.
- Fresh dill adds a bright herbal note but can be substituted with parsley if unavailable.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially if using salted broth.
- The lemon juice is optional but adds a nice touch of acidity to balance the creaminess.
- Leftover chowder can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
