Florida Fish Chowder
A hearty Florida Fish Chowder featuring tender fish, smoky bacon, and creamy broth, perfect for comforting meals and seafood lovers seeking rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp, then remove and set aside.
- Add chopped onion to the bacon drippings and sauté until lightly browned.
- Add hot water and diced potatoes to the onion and cook until potatoes are almost done.
- Cut fish fillets into approximately 1-inch square pieces.
- Add fish to the mixture and cook until fish flakes when tested with a fork.
- Pour in half cream and milk, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Optional: Add chopped bacon to the chowder if desired.
- Heat through and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular bacon. You can substitute the fish fillets with shrimp or crab if preferred, adjusting cooking times accordingly. To enhance the chowder, add a splash of white wine or a few drops of lemon juice just before serving. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional chopped bacon and fresh herbs for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, consider serving alongside American recipes like cornbread or a light coleslaw.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from separating. You can add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florida Fish Chowder contains roughly 451 calories, with 18g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (221% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (114% of the Daily Value), and iron (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 32g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fish fillets for this chowder?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the chowder. This will ensure even cooking and better texture. It’s best to cut the fish into pieces after thawing for consistent cooking times.
What type of fish works best for chowder?
White fish varieties like cod, haddock, or tilapia are ideal for this chowder due to their mild flavor and flaky texture. Avoid oily fish as they can alter the chowder's creaminess and overall taste.
How can I make this chowder dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the half cream and milk with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as coconut milk can add a different flavor profile. You may also need to thicken the chowder with a cornstarch slurry if desired.
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).