King Crab Chowder
Rich and creamy King Crab Chowder features tender crab meat, smoky bacon, and aromatic vegetables, offering a comforting seafood dish perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon until crisp.
- Remove bacon from pan and set aside.
- In bacon fat, saute onions, celery, and garlic until translucent.
- Sprinkle flour and salt over vegetables and stir to combine.
- Slowly add stock while stirring.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add half and half, crab meat, and cooked bacon.
- Heat gently without boiling and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer chowder, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables. If crab meat is unavailable, you can substitute with shrimp or lobster for a similar flavor. To thicken the chowder, use more flour or a cornstarch slurry. Pair this dish with crusty bread for a delightful meal, or explore other American recipes that feature seafood.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits and fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added flavor. This chowder pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or crusty artisan bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Cheesy Bacon Appetizers to complement the rich flavors of the chowder.
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 to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling, as this can affect the texture of the crab meat. You can also freeze the chowder, but be aware that the cream may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of King Crab Chowder contains roughly 95 calories, with 5g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1989mg per serving (86% 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 make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chowder ahead of time. It's best to prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Just remember to add the crab meat and half-and-half right before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
What type of crab meat should I use?
For the best flavor, use lump crab meat, which has large, tender pieces and a sweet taste. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, you can use canned crab meat, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess liquid in the chowder.
Can I make this chowder gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the chowder gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Ensure that your stock and other ingredients are also labeled gluten-free to maintain the dish's integrity.
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).