Key West Chowder
A creamy, flavorful seafood chowder with fresh vegetables and aromatic seasonings, perfect for comforting meals or special gatherings that enjoy rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped green onions in butter and flour over medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add half and half or milk, stirring continuously, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add water, diced celery, sliced carrots, chicken bouillon, seafood seasoning, and parsley to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Add diced seafood and cook until seafood is just cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the onions. You can substitute the seafood with chicken for a different twist or use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are unavailable. If you prefer a thicker chowder, increase the amount of flour or reduce the liquid. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme can also enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside Tropical Stuffed Cornish Hens, which brings a wonderful balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the chowder cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent curdling. You may need to add a splash of milk or half and half to maintain the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Key West Chowder contains roughly 1013 calories, with 21g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (165% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (155% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1037mg per serving (45% 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 seafood in this chowder?
Yes, frozen seafood works well in this chowder. Just ensure it is thawed before dicing and adding it to the pot. This can save time and is a convenient option if fresh seafood is not available. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using larger pieces.
How can I make this chowder dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and use coconut milk or almond milk instead of half and half. This will change the flavor slightly, but the chowder will remain creamy and delicious.
What types of seafood are best for this chowder?
You can use any seafood you prefer, such as shrimp, scallops, or crab. A mix of different types can also add complexity to the dish. Just ensure that the seafood is fresh or properly thawed if frozen, and adjust the cooking time based on the type used.
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).