Irish Seafood Chowder is a creamy, hearty soup that combines fresh seafood like salmon, white fish, and shrimp with tender vegetables and herbs. This comforting dish, made with butter, seafood broth, and half and half, delivers a rich, velvety texture and a deliciously savory taste. Inspired by traditional Irish flavors, this chowder is perfect for chilly days and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced
• ½ cup celery, diced
• 2 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups seafood stock
• 2 cups half and half (or heavy cream for a richer version)
• ½ pound salmon, cut into chunks
• ½ pound white fish (sea bass, cod, halibut, or tilapia), cut into chunks
• ½ pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish

Directions

1. Prep the vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes and carrots. Dice the onions and celery. Mince the garlic.
2. Prep the seafood: If the fish has skin, remove it and chop it into cubes. Peel and devein the shrimp, removing the tails and cutting them in half.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat a medium pot over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the diced vegetables and cook until slightly softened, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the flour and seasonings: Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is fully absorbed.
5. Add the broth and half and half: Pour in the seafood broth and half and half, stirring well. Increase heat to medium-high until the mixture reaches a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 6-7 minutes, until thickened and the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the seafood: Stir in the salmon, white fish, and shrimp. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the shrimp turns pink. Be careful not to overcook the seafood.
7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh black pepper, chopped cilantro, or green onions. Serve with crusty bread or brown bread for a traditional touch.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 412 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 606mg
• Potassium: 1043mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 7g
• Vitamin A: 5034 IU
• Vitamin C: 9mg
• Calcium: 200mg
• Iron: 2mg

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Irish Seafood Chowder!

A Taste of Ireland’s Coastal Cuisine

Ireland’s extensive coastline and abundant waters provide a vast selection of fresh seafood, making chowder a natural choice for many Irish families. The dish originated as a way for fishermen to utilize their daily catch, combining it with simple yet flavorful ingredients. The use of salmon, white fish, and shrimp ensures a rich and diverse taste, enhanced by aromatic herbs and velvety broth.

Irish Seafood Chowder is typically served with brown bread or crusty soda bread, a pairing that adds texture and enhances the overall experience. While variations exist across different regions of Ireland, the core elements of this dish remain the same—a perfect blend of seafood, dairy, and seasoning.

The Essence of Comfort in a Bowl

What sets Irish Seafood Chowder apart from other seafood soups is its incredible depth of flavor and creamy consistency. The combination of butter, seafood broth, and half and half results in a luxurious texture that coats the palate with every spoonful. The inclusion of potatoes and vegetables not only adds substance but also contributes to the chowder’s heartiness, making it a satisfying meal on its own.

The delicate balance of seasoning is another key aspect of this dish. Dried thyme provides an earthy note, while red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of spice. The natural sweetness of carrots and onions complements the seafood, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

The Health Benefits of Seafood Chowder

Beyond its irresistible taste, Irish Seafood Chowder also boasts several nutritional benefits. Seafood is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of salmon, in particular, provides heart-healthy fats that support cardiovascular health, while shrimp offers a high-protein, low-calorie option.

Potatoes, another key ingredient, are rich in fiber and potassium, aiding in digestion and overall well-being. The use of half and half or heavy cream adds calcium and vitamin D, which contribute to strong bones and a healthy immune system. Despite its creamy consistency, this dish can be adjusted to be lighter by using milk or a dairy-free alternative without compromising its signature taste.

A Versatile Dish for Every Occasion

Irish Seafood Chowder is not just limited to cold winter nights—it can be enjoyed throughout the year. It makes for an excellent appetizer at a dinner gathering, a comforting meal for a quiet evening, or even a festive dish for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Its versatility also allows for ingredient substitutions, making it accessible to different dietary needs and preferences.

For those who prefer a thicker chowder, an additional tablespoon of flour can be incorporated, while those who enjoy a thinner broth may opt for extra seafood stock. Adding a splash of white wine enhances the dish’s complexity, introducing a hint of acidity that complements the richness of the seafood.

The Cultural Significance of Irish Chowder

Seafood has played a crucial role in Irish culture for centuries. Fishing communities along the west coast, from Galway to Donegal, have long relied on the ocean for sustenance. Irish Seafood Chowder represents the ingenuity of these communities, where fresh ingredients were transformed into hearty and flavorful meals.

Over time, this dish has become a beloved feature in Irish cuisine, often found in local pubs and high-end restaurants alike. Visitors to Ireland frequently seek out authentic seafood chowder, enjoying it as a taste of the country’s culinary heritage. The combination of traditional cooking methods with modern variations continues to make this dish a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Tips for Enhancing Your Irish Seafood Chowder

For those looking to elevate their chowder, consider the following tips:

• Use the freshest seafood available – The quality of the seafood significantly impacts the flavor of the dish. Opt for wild-caught fish and fresh shrimp whenever possible.
• Sauté the vegetables properly – Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery in butter until they are soft and fragrant adds a rich base of flavor.
• Season thoughtfully – A pinch of smoked paprika or a bay leaf can introduce additional depth to the broth.
• Garnish for freshness – Freshly chopped cilantro or green onions add a burst of color and brightness to the final dish.
• Pair with the right bread – Traditional Irish brown bread or sourdough makes an excellent accompaniment, enhancing the chowder’s texture and taste.

Conclusion

Irish Seafood Chowder is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Ireland’s rich maritime history and culinary tradition. With its creamy broth, tender seafood, and comforting flavors, this dish offers a taste of the Irish coast in every spoonful. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or as a centerpiece for a special occasion, this chowder is sure to impress and satisfy. For those looking to bring a bit of Ireland into their home kitchen, this recipe is the perfect way to start.