Deliciously Creamy Homemade Shrimp Chowder Recipe

Welcome to your next culinary adventure with this easy Shrimp chowder recipe that promises to be a feast for your senses! This comforting dish hails from coastal kitchens, where the freshest seafood meets rich, creamy broth, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or looking to impress guests with a gourmet meal, this homemade shrimp chowder from scratch is bound to become a favorite. Additionally, for those seeking alternatives, we also have suggestions for a vegan shrimp chowder that everyone can enjoy!

With its rich base and succulent shrimp, this chowder is not only satisfying but also relatively easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into this culinary delight!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Serving Size: 4 servings

Ingredients Section

Here’s what you will need to create your flavorful shrimp chowder:

For the Chowder Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups vegetable broth or seafood stock (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 can (15 oz) of corn, drained (can substitute with fresh corn)

For the Creamy Finish:

• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Use almond milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free option.
• Swap fresh shrimp with canned or frozen shrimp; adjust cooking time as needed.
• For a heartier chowder, add diced bacon or pancetta while sautéing the onions.

Equipment List

Before getting started, gather these essential tools:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cup for ladling
• Serving bowls and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking with these straightforward steps!

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion, and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery, continuing to sauté for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and mingle.
3. Add Potatoes: Incorporate the cubed potato and dried thyme into the pot. Stir gently, letting the potatoes soak in the flavors for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the Liquid: Carefully pour the vegetable broth or seafood stock into the pot, scraping the bottom to release any flavorful bits stuck there. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the Base: Reduce the heat to low and cover, allowing the chowder base to simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. You’ll know it’s ready when a fork easily pierces the potato cubes.
6. Add Corn and Cream: Stir in the drained corn and heavy cream (or coconut milk) into the chowder. Let it heat through for another 5 minutes.
7. Introduce the Shrimp: Gently fold in the fresh shrimp into the chowder. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, indicating they’re fully cooked.
8. Season to Taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
9. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy the warm and inviting aroma of your delicious creation!

Special Notes

If you’re making this chowder ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if it feels too thick.

Should you encounter any issues, like a thicker-than-desired sauce, gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. For a seafood twist, feel free to incorporate other seafood like scallops or crab meat, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

Variations and Customizations

Don’t hesitate to tailor this shrimp chowder to your dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: This chowder is naturally gluten-free; just ensure any broth used is labeled as such.
• Vegan Option: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or a store-bought plant-based shrimp alternative and use coconut milk.
• Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb version while retaining a comforting texture.

Nutritional Information

For those tracking their intake, each serving of shrimp chowder provides approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

Engaging Visual Details

Your finished shrimp chowder should be a beautiful, creamy yellow with pink slightly curled shrimp peeking through. As you serve, you’ll notice the rich aroma of thyme mingling with the sweetness of shrimp wafting through the air—inviting and appetizing! Capturing a photograph of the steaming bowls garnished with fresh parsley would be perfect for Instagram, showcasing both color and texture.

Conclusion

Now that you have the perfect recipe in hand, it’s time to gather your ingredients and immerse yourself in the delightful process of cooking this homemade shrimp chowder. Share your experience with us! If you tried this recipe, or added your twist, leave a comment below. We can’t wait to see your versions on Instagram—tag us with MyDeliciousDish.