Luxe Coastal Seafood Chowder

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of the coast with this creamy seafood chowder. A perfect blend of tender crab meat, succulent shrimp, and a rich, velvety broth, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds to a seaside retreat. Ideal for a cozy dinner, this chowder is both hearty and sophisticated, making it the perfect choice for any seafood lover.

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb crab meat, cooked and shredded
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
2. Create the Roux:
   Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. Ensure the mixture stays pale and doesn’t brown.
3. Incorporate the Broth and Cream:
   Gradually whisk in the seafood or chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add the heavy cream and white wine (if using), stirring until the chowder base is smooth and well combined.
4. Simmer the Chowder:
   Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add the Seafood:
   Gently fold in the cooked crab meat, shrimp, and Old Bay seasoning. Continue simmering for another 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
6. Season and Serve:
   Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the pot from heat and ladle the chowder into serving bowls.
7. Garnish:
   Finish each bowl with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley to add a vibrant touch of color and a burst of fresh flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Servings: 4

Conclusion

This creamy seafood chowder is the epitome of comfort food with an elegant twist. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something special, this chowder is guaranteed to impress. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.