Image by Nick Karvounis

Fish chowder

Ah, the ambrosial treat that is fish chowder - a dish so deeply entrenched in local tradition and culture that one who attempts to replicate it runs the risk of harsh judgement. The mere mention of this hallowed soup can invoke a Pavlovian salivation from those familiar with its unparalleled taste.

Fish chowder


The key to a proper rendition of this chowder lies not in complicated technique but in the simple, almost tangible, love that goes into crafting it. Common ingredients in a fish chowder recipe include various types of fish, potatoes, onions, and milk, however slight variations may also be employed. The fish must be fresh, as any erosion in quality will lead to a repugnant product. After being cooked, the fish is combined with an array of aromatics and spices, such as dill, chives, Bay leaves, garlick, and black pepper, before finally being stewed in milk and thickened with flour.

Once the chowder reaches a consistency to the cook's liking, it is then adorned with fresh herbs and seasonings for added piquancy. A dollop of cream or a sprinkle of parsley are often used to complete the plating. The result is a warming bowl of briny, creamy goodness that is a delight on both the palate and the soul.

Despite its humble nature, the fish chowder is one of the most beloved dishes in many parts of the world - a hearty winter favorite that won't soon be forgotten. So next time you find yourself craving something savory, be sure to give this scrumptious treat a try!

The origin of Fish chowder

Ah, fish chowder, that savory concoction of clams, fish, cream, and butter. It's a classic dish whose roots stretch back centuries and cross many continents. For such a seemingly simple soup, it has quite the history.

The origins of fish chowder likely lie in Europe during the Middle Ages. There are records of a French dish called "Chaudee de Poissons" described as a "fish soup or broth made with onions, oil, and salt." By the 17th century, this soup had crossed the Atlantic, arriving in New England and Newfoundland, where it evolved into the fish chowder we know today.

The local ingredients available in these regions, such as cod, clams, potatoes, and onions, gave the soup its characteristic heartiness. Cream and butter were added to give the soup more body, while herbs and spices provided extra flavor. As more immigrants arrived in America, the recipe for fish chowder further adapted, incorporating other seafood ingredients, such as oysters, crab, and shrimp.

Some have attributed the popularity of fish chowder to the harsh winters of the American Northeast. The soup allowed people to make use of whatever ingredients were readily available, making it a staple of the region. To this day, many restaurants in the area feature fish chowder on their menus.

But perhaps the most famous fish chowder is the seafood stew known as cioppino. It hails from San Francisco, where it was developed by Italian-American fishermen in the late 19th century. Unlike traditional fish chowder, which is made with milk or cream, cioppino is tomato-based and includes different types of shellfish.

Fish chowder, then, is the product of centuries of cross-cultural exchange and adaptation. It offers a comforting reminder of home while constantly evolving and adapting to new ingredients and tastes. Whether eaten from a bowl or served as a stew, it continues to be a delicious dish that's sure to satisfy any palate.

FAQs about Fish chowder

What goes well with fish chowder?

Some good sides to accompany fish chowder include crusty bread, a green salad, cornbread, coleslaw, and boiled potatoes.


What is fish chowder made of?

Fish chowder typically includes fish, potatoes, onion, celery, carrots, and milk or cream. Additional ingredients may include bacon, corn, clam juice, tomato paste, herbs, and spices.


What is the difference between fish stew and fish chowder?

Fish stew is a soup that typically contains chunks of fish, potatoes, and vegetables. The broth is usually thicker than a traditional soup. Fish chowder is a creamy soup that usually uses milk, cream, or a whitefish stock as its base. It typically also contains potatoes, onions, and seasonings, with the addition of fish.


What makes a soup a chowder?

Chowder is a type of thick soup that usually contains milk or cream, potatoes, and a variety of other ingredients depending on the type of chowder. Common additions include clams, seafood, vegetables, and bacon.


Types of Fish chowder

Ah, fish chowder, a beloved dish that has been made for centuries. The creamy and comforting soup is a favorite among seafood loving households around the world and has come in a variety of forms as time has marched on. From classic American takes to more exotic and unique global recipes, fish chowder should have a place in every kitchen.

To kick off our exploration into the amazing world of fish chowder, let’s start with the classic American version. This type of chowder is thick and creamy, made from a blend of potatoes, onions, celery and a savory blend of spices to bring out the flavor of the fish. This type of chowder is usually mild in flavor and can be topped with oyster crackers or croutons to add crunch.

The next type of fish chowder is a French inspired variety. This type of chowder often contains thick chunks of whitefish, such as cod, as well as a generous amount of white wine and cream. Onions and herbs are also used to give the chowder a delicious and savory flavor.

Next up is the London fish chowder. This type of chowder usually uses salmon as its main ingredient and is often served with a side of toast. This chowder is known to use butter and vegetable stock to create a light and flavorful soup. Thick chunks of potatoes, mushrooms and onion add texture to this classic fish chowder.

If you’re looking for something a bit more exotic, consider trying an Asian inspired fish chowder. This type of chowder is often made with fragrant ingredients like ginger, garlic and chili paste to give it an intense flavor. Fish sauce is a common ingredient in these soups, and it is often paired with noodles, vegetables and fresh herbs to create a unique and spicy experience.

Finally, there’s the Connecticut fish chowder. This dish is known for its somewhat sweet taste, owing to ingredients like maple syrup and nutmeg. This chowder is usually served with crackers or toast and is often accompanied by a side of cornbread.

No matter which type of fish chowder you prefer, it’s sure to be a delicious and comforting meal. So next time the craving hits, don’t hesitate to break out your favorite chowder pot and get cooking!