Craving a hearty, flavorful meal? Try this Smoked haddock chowder a creamy, satisfying homemade recipe packed with rich flavor, protein, and classic ingredients. Discover this quick and cozy dish today at www.bbrecipes.com.

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Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chowder, especially when it’s infused with smoky, briny notes and a silky creaminess. This Smoked haddock chowder is more than just a soup it’s a meal that wraps you up in a blanket of flavor and nostalgia. Whether you’re trying to beat the winter chill or just want something hearty and soul-satisfying, this easy homemade recipe delivers.

The beauty of Smoked haddock chowder lies in its simplicity and depth. Using naturally smoked haddock, potatoes, cream, and just the right touch of seasoning, it brings together everything you love about seafood, traditional comfort food, and nourishing meals. If you’ve never made chowder before, don’t worry this recipe is incredibly forgiving, and the results are consistently delicious.

Let’s walk through this classic meatless chowder step-by-step. It’s perfect for beginners, ideal for weekly meal prep, and sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create the most flavorful Smoked haddock chowder at home. These core ingredients form the base of this satisfying meal:

1 lb (450g) smoked haddock fillets, skin removed, cut into chunks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, diced
1 medium leek, sliced and thoroughly rinsed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large potato, peeled and diced
3 cups (750 ml) fish stock or vegetable stock
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
1 bay leaf
Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional but recommended:

1/2 tsp smoked paprika for added depth
A knob of butter for a richer finish

This recipe is naturally meat-free but rich in protein, thanks to the haddock, and the cream adds a luxurious texture that balances the smokiness of the fish perfectly.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serves 4)

Calories: 360 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 550mg
Fiber: 2g

Packed with protein and healthy fats, this chowder is a smart option for those looking for a filling, low-carb meal with clean, wholesome ingredients.

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and leek. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add potatoes and stock

Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the stock. Add the bay leaf, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Poach the smoked haddock

Gently lower the smoked haddock chunks into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 5–6 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Carefully remove the fish with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Finish with milk and cream

Lower the heat and stir in the milk and heavy cream. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes to warm through—do not let it boil. Add the butter for extra richness, if using.

Step 5: Combine and serve

Flake the haddock into large pieces and gently return it to the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf.

Serve the Smoked haddock chowder hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This rich and flavorful dish is a standalone meal on its own, but here are some creative ways to elevate your bowl:

Serve with warm crusty sourdough or soda bread.
Add a soft-poached egg on top for extra creaminess and protein.
Pair with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for balance.
For a touch of heat, offer chili oil or hot sauce on the side.

A perfect meal for cold nights, lazy Sundays, or elegant starters at a dinner party.

Pro Tips

Get the best results every time with these expert tips:

Use fresh, undyed smoked haddock for the most authentic flavor.
Don’t over-stir once you’ve added the fish; let the flakes stay intact for better texture.
Preheat your milk and cream before adding to prevent curdling.
For a thicker chowder, mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding the milk.
Add corn kernels or peas for a sweet pop of texture.

These cooking tips help you master this comforting chowder with ease.

Variations

Want to switch things up? This recipe is versatile and welcomes creativity:

Gluten-Free Option

This recipe is already gluten-free. Just ensure your stock and spices are certified gluten-free.

Dairy-Free Variation

Swap cream for full-fat coconut milk and use plant-based butter for a rich, dairy-free alternative.

Vegetarian Chowder

Substitute smoked haddock with smoked tofu or mushrooms. Use veggie stock and add a touch of liquid smoke for depth.

Spicy Suya-Inspired Version

Add a touch of West African flair by seasoning with a pinch of yaji (suya spice). It brings a nutty heat and turns this into a bold fusion dish.

Each variation keeps the chowder hearty and enjoyable, no matter your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This chowder reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat over low heat.

Q: Can I freeze smoked haddock chowder?
It’s best fresh, but it can be frozen without the cream. Add fresh cream when reheating.

Q: What’s the best substitute if I can’t find smoked haddock?
You can use smoked cod, pollock, or even hot-smoked salmon.

Q: Is smoked haddock already cooked?
No, it’s cured by smoking but still needs to be cooked thoroughly before eating.

Q: How can I make it lower in fat?
Use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of cream and reduce the butter.

Conclusion

This Smoked haddock chowder is the kind of recipe that feels timeless. It’s warm, creamy, satisfying, and packed with flavor that doesn’t overpower. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or just making a quiet dinner for yourself, this dish delivers every time.

Give this recipe a try and share your thoughts in the comments. We’d love to know how it turned out or if you added your own twist. For more cozy, protein-rich, and easy-to-make recipes like this one, visit www.bbrecipes.com.

Bookmark this chowder, come back for seconds, and don’t forget to explore the rest of our delicious collection of homemade recipes.