Delmarva Crab And Corn Chowder
A rich and flavorful crab and corn chowder featuring sweet corn, tender crab meat, and aromatic spices, perfect for seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove kernels from the corn ears if using fresh corn, or measure 1 1/2 cups of frozen kernels.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add the corn kernels and cook for a few minutes to develop sweetness.
- Pour in the water (or chicken broth) and clam juice, then add salt and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and stir in the Old Bay seasoning and cayenne or black pepper to taste.
- Add the fresh crab meat and chopped red bell pepper to the soup.
- Simmer the chowder for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Old Bay or herbs if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor. If fresh crab is unavailable, canned crab meat can be a suitable substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the dish, or try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. This chowder pairs beautifully with Exquisite Crab Dip as a starter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning or fresh herbs for extra flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a light meal. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings, making it a standout choice alongside other seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delmarva Crab And Corn Chowder contains roughly 784 calories, with 18g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (184% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (149% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (113% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1267mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. It is convenient and retains a good flavor and texture. Use about 1 1/2 cups of frozen whole kernels to replace the fresh corn. Just add them to the pot when you would add fresh kernels.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra depth, consider adding diced potatoes or a splash of white wine during cooking. You can also experiment with different seasonings such as thyme or dill to complement the seafood. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly, as clam juice can be salty.
How do I make this chowder thicker?
To thicken the chowder, you can mash some of the corn kernels or add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water. Simmer for a few additional minutes after adding the thickening agent until it reaches your desired consistency. Another option is to add a small amount of cream for richness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).