Super Easy Salmon Chowder Recipe

I love making this bacon-studded Salmon Chowder Recipe because it’s delicious but easy to make all in one pot! When it’s sweater weather like it is here in North Dakota, it’s time for this salmon soup recipe.

A Bowl Of Comfort For The Whole Family

If you’ve been searching for the perfect salmon chowder recipe to warm your soul and satisfy your family, look no further. This hearty dish combines creamy textures, tender salmon, and flavorful vegetables into one delicious pot.

As a reminder this recipe, like all of my recipes, was tested and approved by my wife and our 9-year-old daughter so you can be confident that this salmon soup is a kid-friendly recipe.

North Dakota Salmon Fishing - A Hidden Treasure

Did you know you can catch salmon right here in North Dakota? Lake Sakakawea, nestled in the western part of the state, is home to Chinook salmon. These fish were introduced in 1976 to take advantage of the reservoir’s deep, cold waters. Each year, anglers flock to the lake from late July through September, the prime time to reel in these beauties. With a daily limit of five salmon, it’s an excellent way to stock up for chowder season.

No need to buy salmon from the store when you can catch your own. A fishing trip to Lake Sakakawea offers not only fresh ingredients but also unforgettable memories. So grab your gear and experience North Dakota’s unique salmon fishing for yourself!

A Brief History About Soup And Chowder

Soup, one of humanity’s oldest comfort foods, dates back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that Neanderthals might have made the first bone broths. Fast forward to 20,000 years ago, and pottery discovered in China hints at soup’s enduring presence in our diets. Cultures worldwide have embraced soup for its versatility and nourishing qualities.

Chowder, a type of soup, is known for its thick, creamy base and hearty ingredients. Traditional chowders often feature seafood, such as clams or fish, but they’re also celebrated for their chunky textures and robust flavors. So, is this dish a salmon soup recipe or a salmon chowder recipe? The answer: it’s both! This recipe showcases the best of both worlds—the comforting qualities of soup and the satisfying richness of chowder.

What Makes This Salmon Chowder Special

This salmon chowder recipe combines simple ingredients to create a dish that’s as flavorful as it is comforting. Here's what you'll need:

• Bacon: Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
• Butter and Vegetables: A sauté of celery, carrots, and onion forms the aromatic base.
• Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes make every chowder better.
• Salmon: The star ingredient, tender and flaky.
• Seafood Stock and Corn: Create a savory, slightly sweet broth.
• Herbs and Spices: Dill, marjoram, salt, and pepper bring layers of flavor.
• Half and Half: Adds a creamy finish.

This recipe also includes optional jalapeños for a bit of heat and fresh chives for garnish. Feel free to leave the jalapeños out to make it a more kid-friendly chowder. And don’t forget the oyster crackers for a satisfying crunch!

How To Make Salmon Chowder

1. In a large Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until brown and crispy, about 5 to 10 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the bacon grease. Sauté the onion, celery, and carrots over medium-high heat until the onions are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, potatoes, pepper, dill, marjoram, and ¼ teaspoon of the salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the flour and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in the seafood stock and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add the corn (with its liquid), chicken bouillon, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir often and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
6. Chop the salmon fillets into 1-inch pieces and season with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt.
7. Whisk the half and half with the cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the chowder.
8. Add the salmon to the pot and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh chives, diced jalapeños (if using), and crumbled bacon. Serve with oyster crackers.

This salmon chowder recipe is the perfect way to celebrate the versatility of salmon, especially if you’ve caught it fresh from Lake Sakakawea. Whether you call it salmon soup or salmon chowder, one thing is certain: this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Make This Salmon Soup Recipe Your Own

Feel free to customize this salmon soup recipe to suit your taste. Add more jalapeños if you like it extra spicy, or substitute the Yukon gold potatoes with red potatoes for a slightly firmer texture. Want to make it lighter? Use milk instead of half and half, though the chowder will be less creamy.

More Fish Recipes

If you’re looking for another salmon recipe, be sure and check out our Creamy Tuscan Salmon with Dandelion Greens. You can also check out some of our other favorite fish recipes below:

• Smoked Fish Dip
• Pescado Frito
• Butter Poached Puffer Fish
• Fried Northern Pike and Peach Cherry Tomato Salad
• Mediterranean Fish Salad
• Coconut Crusted Fish
• Lahori Fish

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DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE

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