Ingredients
Method
- Cook the bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy. Add the oil and onion to the pot and cook until the onion softens. Stir in the tomato paste and cook briefly until it darkens slightly. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, to create a roux.2 Slices Bacon, 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 1 small Yellow Onion, 1 tsp Tomato Paste, 3 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- Gradually whisk in the broth and half-and-half, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps of flour remaining. Add the potatoes, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Bring the chowder to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.3 Cups Chicken Broth, 2 Cups Half and Half, 1 lb Red Skinned Potatoes, 1 pinch Kosher Salt, 1 pinch Ground Black Pepper
- Gently stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 4 minutes. Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the chowder is too thick, thin it out with a little bit of water. Ladle the chowder into bowls, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper.1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 12 oz Medium Shrimp, ½ Cup Fresh Basil, 1 pinch Ground Black Pepper
Nutrition
Notes
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined. If using frozen, thaw them completely before adding to the chowder.
- Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky depth of flavor. You can use pancetta or salt pork as substitutes.
- Vegetables: The classic base includes onions, celery, and potatoes. You can add other vegetables like corn, carrots, or bell peppers for variety.
- Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds richness and depth of flavor. Make sure to cook it briefly to remove any raw taste.
- Flour: Flour is used to thicken the chowder. All-purpose flour is common, but you can use a gluten-free blend if needed.
- Broth: Use a good-quality chicken or seafood broth. Homemade broth will add the most flavor.
- Half-and-Half: This adds creaminess. You can use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream as alternatives.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well in chowder.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential. Some recipes also add herbs like thyme or bay leaves.
- Garnishes: Fresh basil is a classic garnish. You can also use parsley, chives, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Crisp the Bacon: Cook the bacon until it's nice and crispy to render out the fat and add maximum flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pot: When sautéing the vegetables, make sure the pot isn't overcrowded. This will ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook the Tomato Paste: Cook the tomato paste briefly until it darkens slightly to remove any raw taste.
- Make a Roux: Cooking the flour with the bacon fat and vegetables creates a roux, which helps to thicken the chowder.
- Simmer Gently: Simmer the chowder gently to allow the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp towards the end of cooking and cook just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp will be tough.
- Adjust Consistency: If the chowder is too thick, thin it out with a little water or broth.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the chowder before serving and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers for dipping.
- Salad: A simple green salad is a refreshing accompaniment.
- Sides: Coleslaw or cornbread also pair well with shrimp chowder.
- Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Smoked: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.
- Corn Chowder: Add corn kernels for a sweeter, summery twist.



















































