🌊 Introduction
Creamy Seafood Chowder is a rich, comforting soup filled with tender shrimp, sweet scallops, and delicate herbs in a velvety cream broth. This dish brings together coastal flavors and homestyle warmth, making it perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or cozy nights at home. Every spoonful delivers a balance of sweetness from the seafood and creaminess from the broth.
📜 History
Seafood chowder has its roots in coastal communities of Europe and North America. Fishermen traditionally prepared chowders using fresh catch, cream or milk, and simple vegetables. Over time, regions like New England became famous for creamy chowders, while other coastal areas added local seafood varieties such as shrimp, scallops, clams, or crab.
🛒 Ingredients
🦐 Main Ingredients:
500 g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
300 g scallops
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 medium potatoes (diced small)
1 carrot (finely diced)
3 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
🌿 Seasonings:
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Fresh dill or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
👩🍳 Preparation Method
Step 1: Sauté the Base
In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3–4 minutes).
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add diced potatoes and carrots.
Pour in the broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Add Seafood
Add shrimp and scallops to the pot.
Cook for 4–5 minutes until seafood turns opaque and tender. Do not overcook.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and stir in milk and heavy cream.
Add salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
Simmer gently for 5 more minutes (do not boil after adding cream).
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Garnish with fresh dill or parsley.
Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast.
🥣 Cooking Methods Variation
Classic Stove Method – As described above.
Slow Cooker Method – Cook vegetables and broth 4–5 hours on low, add seafood and cream in last 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Method – Pressure cook vegetables 5 minutes, quick release, then add seafood and cream on sauté mode.
💪 Benefits
🦐 High in protein from shrimp and scallops
🧠 Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (good for heart and brain)
🥕 Contains vitamins from vegetables
🥛 Provides calcium from milk and cream
🍲 Comfort food that supports warmth and satisfaction
🍽️ Presentation (Formation)
Serve in a deep bowl.
Add extra herbs on top.
Sprinkle a little paprika for color.
Pair with lemon wedges for brightness.
Serve with warm bread or crackers.
❤️ Why People Love It
Creamy and rich texture
Tender seafood flavor
Perfect for cold weather
Feels gourmet but easy to prepare
Great for family gatherings and special dinners
Seafood lovers especially adore this dish because it highlights the natural sweetness of shrimp and scallops without overpowering them.
🔚 Conclusion
Creamy Seafood Chowder is more than just a soup — it is a comforting bowl of ocean-inspired goodness. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-style meal at home. Whether you prepare it for guests or for yourself, this creamy, flavorful chowder is sure to win hearts and warm souls.