President John F. Kennedy Fish Chowder
A hearty and flavorful fish chowder featuring tender haddock, potatoes, and smoky salt pork, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings. Rich and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer haddock in 2 cups water for 15 minutes.
- Drain; reserve broth.
- Remove bones from fish.
- Saute diced salt pork until crisp.
- Remove salt pork and set aside.
- Saute diced onions in pork fat until golden brown.
- Add fish, diced potatoes, chopped celery, crumbled bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Pour in fish broth and add enough water to make 3 cups of liquid.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Add butter and milk to the soup.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve the chowder sprinkled with the cooked salt pork.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of haddock and cod. If you don't have salt pork, bacon can be a great substitute; just adjust the cooking time to ensure it's crispy. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the chowder’s taste. If you're using frozen fish, ensure it's fully thawed and drained before cooking to prevent excess water in the chowder.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder is best served hot, garnished with the crispy salt pork for added crunch. Pair it with crusty bread or a side of Country Style Cornbread for a satisfying meal. A simple green salad can complement the rich flavors of the chowder. For a heartier option, serve with Hot Baked Stuffed Potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help return some creaminess to the chowder. Avoid microwaving as it may change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of President John F. Kennedy Fish Chowder contains roughly 1370 calories, with 25g protein, 228g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (184% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1670mg per serving (73% 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 a different type of fish?
Yes, while haddock is traditional, you can substitute with cod, pollock, or even shrimp for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted based on the fish type, as some may cook faster than haddock.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
To thicken the chowder, you can create a roux by cooking equal parts flour and butter before adding it to the soup. Alternatively, mashing some of the potatoes can also help achieve a creamier consistency without adding extra ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian version of this chowder?
Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian chowder by omitting the fish and salt pork. Use vegetable broth instead of fish broth, and add more vegetables like carrots and peas for texture. Coconut milk can also be used for a creamy finish.
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).