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Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder

Comforting homemade Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder close-up

A rich and creamy Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder blending fresh local seafood with tender potatoes and herbs for a comforting, hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups fish stock or clam juice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 oz fresh cod, cut into chunks
  • 8 oz fresh scallops
  • 8 oz fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 strips bacon, chopped
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup corn kernels (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
  2. Add butter, onion, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add diced potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and fish stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  4. Stir in milk and heavy cream, then gently add cod, scallops, and shrimp. Cook for 5-7 minutes until seafood is cooked through.
  5. Season chowder with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf.
  6. If using, stir in corn kernels and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  7. Ladle chowder into bowls, garnish with crispy bacon and fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

For added depth, serve with crusty bread and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.