New England Fish Chowder

New England Fish Chowder Recipe with Bacon, Onions, and Potatoes

Region / culture: New England | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

New England Fish Chowder is a classic dish that originated in the coastal regions of New England, known for its rich and creamy broth filled with chunks of tender fish, potatoes, and onions. This hearty and comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.

History

Fish chowder has been a staple in New England cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish dating back to the early days of American settlement. Originally made with salted fish, potatoes, and onions, the recipe has evolved over time to include fresh fish and a creamy milk-based broth. Today, New England Fish Chowder is a beloved dish enjoyed by many across the country.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) fish fillets
2 tbsp bacon, chopped
0.5 cup minced onions
1 cup diced potatoes
2 cups whole milk
0.75 tsp salt (rock or iodized only)
1 dash black or red pepper
6 tbsp chili powder (optional)
parsley (for garnish)

How to prepare

Cut the fish fillets into 1-inch cubes.
Fry the bacon until it is crisp.
Add the onions and brown them slightly.
Add the potatoes with enough water to just cover them, and cook for 10 minutes or until the potatoes are just slightly tender.
Add the fish and cook until it flakes easily with a fork.
Add the milk and seasonings, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Serve immediately with chopped parsley sprinkled over the top.

Variations

Add corn or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of fish, such as cod, haddock, or salmon, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Substitute coconut milk for the dairy milk for a dairy-free version of the chowder.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use fresh fish fillets for the best flavor and texture.

- Be sure to cook the potatoes until they are just slightly tender to avoid them becoming mushy in the chowder.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder as desired.

- For a thicker chowder, you can add a roux (a mixture of flour and butter) to the broth before adding the fish and milk.

Serving Suggestions

Serve New England Fish Chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the fish gently to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.

- Stir the chowder frequently to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom of the pot.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon as a substitute for pork bacon.

- Substitute vegetable broth for the milk for a dairy-free version of the chowder.

Make Ahead Tips

New England Fish Chowder can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish New England Fish Chowder with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve New England Fish Chowder with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover New England Fish Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chowder gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of New England Fish Chowder contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of New England Fish Chowder contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of New England Fish Chowder contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of New England Fish Chowder contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

New England Fish Chowder is a good source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, potassium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

New England Fish Chowder contains fish, dairy, and pork (bacon), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

New England Fish Chowder is a nutritious and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

New England Fish Chowder is a classic dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family. With its rich and creamy broth filled with tender fish, potatoes, and onions, this hearty soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious chowder any time of year for a taste of New England tradition.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a rainy afternoon in New England, and I had taken shelter in a cozy little diner in a small coastal town. The smell of seafood chowder wafted through the air, and I couldn't resist ordering a bowl.

As I took my first spoonful, I was transported back to my childhood, spending summers by the sea with my family. The creamy broth, the tender chunks of fish, the delicate hint of herbs - it was like a taste of home.

I knew I had to learn how to make this chowder myself. I struck up a conversation with the diner's chef, an elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye and a love for cooking that shone through in every dish she prepared.

She told me that the key to a good New England fish chowder was using the freshest ingredients possible. She shared with me her secret for the perfect broth - a combination of clam juice, fish stock, and cream, simmered slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

She taught me how to choose the right fish for the chowder - a mix of cod, haddock, and halibut, all caught that morning by the local fishermen. She showed me how to dice the potatoes and slice the onions just so, to ensure that each spoonful would be a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I spent the rest of the afternoon in the diner's kitchen, watching and learning as the chef prepared batch after batch of chowder. She shared with me stories of her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe to her, and of the many people she had taught to make this beloved dish over the years.

By the time I left the diner that evening, I had a notebook full of notes, sketches, and scribbled-down measurements. I couldn't wait to get home and try making the chowder for myself.

Over the years, I have perfected the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, passing down the tradition of New England fish chowder from generation to generation.

Each time I make a pot of chowder, I am reminded of that rainy afternoon in the diner, and of the kind chef who took me under her wing and taught me the secrets of this delicious dish. It is a recipe that has brought me joy and comfort in good times and bad, and one that I will continue to cherish for years to come.

So here it is, my version of New England fish chowder, passed down to you with love and the hope that it will bring you as much happiness as it has brought me. Enjoy!