Halibut Chowder

Halibut Chowder Recipe - North American Cuisine

Region / culture: North America, USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Halibut chowder is a creamy and flavorful soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender halibut with a rich and creamy broth, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

History

Halibut chowder has its roots in traditional seafood chowder recipes that have been enjoyed for generations. The addition of halibut adds a unique twist to this classic dish, creating a hearty and delicious meal that is sure to please.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) halibut, thawed if necessary
0.5 cup finely chopped onions, red or white only
0.5 cup finely chopped green peppers (bell or jalapeño)
0.5 cup finely chopped celery
0.5 cup finely chopped carrots
6 tbsp butter or margarine, divided
3 cups chicken broth
0.75 tsp salt
0.5 tsp freshly ground white pepper
2 cups milk, regular or skimmed/reduced fat only
3 tbsp flour
2.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tbsp minced parsley

How to prepare

Remove the skin and bones from the halibut.
Cut the halibut into bite-sized pieces using a kitchen knife.
In a pan, sauté the vegetables in 3 tbsp of butter. Then, add the halibut, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
Cover the pan and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Then, add the milk and gently heat it.
Combine the remaining 3 tbsp of butter with flour and add it to the chowder. Cook and stir until it slightly thickens.
Add the cheese and sprinkle with parsley. Serve the chowder hot, either plain or with any seafood or other main dishes. Scoop some of the cooked chowder into a large bowl.

Variations

Add corn or potatoes to the chowder for added texture and flavor.
Use different types of seafood, such as shrimp or scallops, in place of the halibut for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove the skin and bones from the halibut before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.

- Sautéing the vegetables in butter before adding the halibut and broth helps to develop the flavors in the chowder.

- Adding the milk slowly and gently heating it helps to prevent curdling.

- Thickening the chowder with a butter and flour mixture creates a rich and creamy texture.

- Sprinkling the chowder with parsley adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the halibut chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the vegetables before adding the halibut and broth helps to develop the flavors in the chowder.

- Adding the milk slowly and gently heating it helps to prevent curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter in place of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Use a different type of cheese, such as Gruyere or Swiss, in place of the cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The chowder can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the chowder with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the halibut chowder with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 22g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 12g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 28g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% of the daily recommended value per serving

- Vitamin C: 10% of the daily recommended value per serving

- Calcium: 25% of the daily recommended value per serving

- Iron: 10% of the daily recommended value per serving

Alergens

Contains fish, dairy, and wheat

Summary

This halibut chowder is a rich and creamy dish that is high in protein and calcium, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Summary

Halibut chowder is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender halibut with a rich and creamy broth, creating a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. Serve the chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a complete meal that is sure to please.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a chilly autumn day, and I had just finished picking up some fresh halibut from the local market. As I browsed through my collection of cookbooks, my eyes landed on a worn and tattered page with the title "Halibut Chowder."

I had never made chowder before, but something about the ingredients and the method seemed so comforting and familiar to me. The recipe called for simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, celery, and of course, the star of the show - halibut. It also included a creamy broth made with milk and a touch of butter.

I remembered my mother making a similar dish when I was a child, and the memories flooded back to me. I could almost smell the savory aroma of the chowder simmering on the stove, and I could hear the sound of my family laughing and chatting around the dinner table.

As I read through the recipe, I realized that it was more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. It was a story - a story of tradition, of love, and of passing down knowledge from one generation to the next. And I knew that I had to make this chowder and continue the tradition in my own kitchen.

I followed the recipe carefully, chopping the vegetables and sautéing them in a pot until they were tender. Then I added the chunks of halibut and let them cook until they were flaky and delicious. Finally, I poured in the creamy broth and let everything simmer together until the flavors melded into a harmonious symphony of taste.

When I ladled the chowder into bowls and brought them to the table, the look of delight on my family's faces made all the effort worthwhile. They took their first bites and their eyes widened in surprise and delight. The chowder was a hit - a warm and comforting hug in a bowl.

As we sat around the table, savoring each spoonful of chowder, I couldn't help but think about where this recipe came from. I knew that it had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist and flair to make it their own. And now, it was my turn to carry on the tradition and share this delicious dish with my loved ones.

I thought back to the first time I learned to cook, standing on a stool in my mother's kitchen, watching her hands move deftly as she chopped, stirred, and seasoned. I remembered the smell of her cooking filling the air, creating a sense of warmth and comfort that I carry with me to this day.

I realized that cooking isn't just about following a recipe - it's about connecting with your past, creating memories, and nourishing both body and soul. And as I looked around at my family, laughing and chatting as they enjoyed my halibut chowder, I knew that I was doing just that.

So, the next time you find a recipe that speaks to you like a magnet, don't hesitate to give it a try. You never know what memories you might create or what traditions you might carry on. And who knows - you just might discover a new family favorite that will be passed down through generations to come.