Imagine a bowl of Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder, where creamy broth swirls around tender shrimp and sweet scallops, inviting you to dive in with a spoon. Each mouthful bursts with oceanic flavor and hints of fresh herbs, making it a comforting hug on a cold day.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the table for chowder nights. My uncle would always insist he could make the best chowder—until I discovered my secret weapon: adding an extra splash of seafood goodness. Spoiler alert: I won!
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder is not just easy to prepare; it’s your ticket to a culinary adventure that will impress even the pickiest eaters. With its unique flavor profile combining the sweetness of seafood and the warmth of creamy broth, it’s visually stunning too—just picture those vibrant colors dancing in your bowl. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite seafood or even toss in some extra veggies for good measure.
Ingredients for Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder
Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:
: Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible for their superior flavor and texture. Look for firm, translucent shells that smell like the ocean.
: Choose dry-packed scallops as they absorb flavors better and have a sweeter taste. They should be plump and slightly moist.
: A good-quality fish stock brings depth to the chowder. You can use store-bought or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
: This adds richness and creaminess, making each spoonful feel indulgent. Make sure it’s fresh for optimal taste.
: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their buttery flavor and ability to hold their shape while cooking.
: These provide sweetness and color; choose bright orange carrots that are firm and crisp.
: Adds crunch and aroma—select stalks that are fresh without any browning at the ends.
: A base flavor enhancer; go for yellow onions as they balance well with other ingredients.
: Fresh herbs brighten up the chowder’s flavors—use whichever you prefer or have on hand!
All ingredients with their exact quantities can be found in the recipe card below.
Step-by-Step Preparation Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder
Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare this delicious recipe:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once heated, toss in one diced onion, one diced carrot, and one diced stalk of celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid any burning.
Step 2: Add Potatoes
Next, stir in two diced Yukon Gold potatoes along with 4 cups of fish stock. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.
Step 3: Incorporate Heavy Cream
Once your potatoes are perfectly tender, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring gently. This is where things start getting creamy! Let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes as all those delicious flavors meld together.
Step 4: Toss in Seafood
Now comes the exciting part! Add 1 pound of fresh shrimp (peeled) and 1 pound of scallops into your pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque while the scallops become firm yet tender.
Step 5: Season & Garnish
Finally, season your chowder with salt, pepper, and a handful of chopped dill or parsley right before serving to brighten up those flavors even more!
Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping—trust me; this chowder deserves its own fan club!
Mastering the Secrets of Cooking
To achieve the ultimate Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder, start by sautéing your aromatics first. This enhances their flavors and creates a savory base. Add your seafood last to avoid overcooking and keep those delightful textures intact.
Make Your Recipe Unique
You can switch up the seafood in your Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder by using shrimp or scallops instead of solely fish. For added zest, try substituting regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
Smart Storage & Reheating
Store your Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain creaminess, reheat gently on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation.
The Chef’s Golden Tips
I remember cooking Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder during a family gathering, and one spoonful transported us all back to our summer trips by the ocean. What a delicious memory!
Conclusion for Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder
In the heart of every bowl of Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder lies a delightful blend of fresh, vibrant flavors that transport you straight to the coast. This comforting dish not only warms the soul but also provides a healthy dose of nutrients from the seafood and vegetables. With its creamy texture and rich taste, this chowder is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Don’t wait any longer—gather your ingredients and create this delicious recipe today. Your taste buds will thank you for this culinary journey to the shores of Nova Scotia!
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Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder
Delicious nova scotia seafood chowder recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled
- 1 pound scallops
- 4 cups fish stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- dill or parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Once heated, toss in one diced onion, one diced carrot, and one diced stalk of celery.
- Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid any burning.
- Next, stir in two diced Yukon Gold potatoes along with 4 cups of fish stock.
- Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.
- Once your potatoes are perfectly tender, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring gently.
- Let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes as all those delicious flavors meld together.
- Add 1 pound of fresh shrimp (peeled) and 1 pound of scallops into your pot.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque while the scallops become firm yet tender.
- Finally, season your chowder with salt, pepper, and a handful of chopped dill or parsley right before serving.
Notes
Store leftover chowder in airtight containers.
Reheat gently on low heat.
Serve with crusty bread slices.
Use fresh seafood for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
FAQs
What type of seafood can I use in Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder?
You can use a variety of seafood based on your preference and availability. Shrimp, scallops, and fish like cod or haddock work beautifully in this chowder. Feel free to mix and match to create your own unique blend.
Can I make Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chowder ahead of time! Make it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat gently on the stove until warmed through.
Is there a vegetarian option for Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder?
To create a vegetarian version of this chowder, substitute seafood with hearty vegetables like potatoes, corn, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth as the base instead of chicken or fish stock, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
How can I thicken my Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, consider using plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar or pectin. You can also add more diced potatoes or blend some of the chowder before returning it to the pot for a creamier texture.