Wisconsin Fish Chowder
A hearty Wisconsin Fish Chowder featuring tender fish, smoky bacon, potatoes, and creamy milk, perfect for comforting family meals or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until golden brown.
- Add onions, potatoes, salt, pepper, and water to the bacon drippings.
- Cover and cook over moderate heat for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add the boned fish to the pot.
- Cover and continue cooking until potatoes are done, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Add the milk and heat thoroughly.
- Thicken the chowder slightly with a flour and water mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon. If you want a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon or omit it entirely. If fresh fish isn't available, canned fish can be used in a pinch. To enhance the chowder, add herbs like thyme or dill. For a thicker chowder, incorporate a mixture of flour and water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a dish like Tina'S Vegetable Mess for a balanced, nutritious dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much during storage, you can add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wisconsin Fish Chowder contains roughly 740 calories, with 23g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 fish for this chowder?
Yes, frozen fish can be used in this recipe. Just ensure to thaw it completely before adding it to the chowder. This will help it cook evenly and maintain the right texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this chowder?
Absolutely! You can replace the fish with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of milk for a creamy texture. This results in a delicious vegetarian chowder that's packed with flavor.
What type of fish works best in chowder?
White fish such as cod or haddock are excellent choices for chowder due to their mild flavor and firm texture. However, you can also experiment with other seafood like shrimp or crabmeat for a different taste. A mixture of these can create a more complex flavor profile.
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).