Chowders

Massachusetts Fish Chowder

Name: Massachusetts Fish Chowder
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) cod, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/2 lb (225g) haddock, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/2 lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter; 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

By Esme Calloway · June 19, 2026 · Chowders

Prep20 min

Cook20 min

Total40 min

Serves4

Massachusetts Fish Chowder — Creamy Fish Chowder

As a coastal home cook, I've always been passionate about demystifying seafood for nervous cooks. Growing up in a family of fishmongers, I learned the importance of using fresh, sustainable ingredients and simple techniques to bring out the best flavors. One of my favorite dishes to make is Massachusetts Fish Chowder, a hearty and comforting soup that's perfect for a chilly evening.

This recipe is a staple in our household, and I love serving it to friends and family who are intimidated by cooking seafood. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. With a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that's sure to become a favorite.

What I love about this recipe is the way the flavors meld together to create a rich and creamy broth. The combination of cod, haddock, and shrimp provides a nice texture and flavor contrast, while the potatoes and onions add a comforting depth to the dish. And let's not forget the most important ingredient: love. This recipe is all about sharing a delicious meal with the people you care about, and I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do.

So, who is this recipe for? It's for anyone who loves seafood, but is nervous about cooking it. It's for families who want a quick and easy dinner that's also healthy and delicious. And it's for anyone who wants to impress their friends and family with a mouth-watering, restaurant-quality meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

In the summer, I love serving this chowder with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. In the winter, it's the perfect comfort food to warm up with. And the best part? You can make it any time of year, using fresh and sustainable ingredients that are available in your local market.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion
The combination of cod, haddock, and shrimp provides a nice texture and flavor contrast
The potatoes and onions add a comforting depth to the dish
It's a great way to impress your friends and family with a mouth-watering, restaurant-quality meal
You can make it any time of year, using fresh and sustainable ingredients that are available in your local market
It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's sure to become a favorite

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe is the way the flavors are layered and balanced. By sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the seafood, we create a rich and aromatic base that sets the tone for the rest of the dish. Then, by adding the potatoes and broth, we create a creamy and comforting texture that's perfect for a chilly evening.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. By cooking the seafood until it reaches 145 F (63 C), we ensure that it's safe to eat and retains its delicate flavor and texture. And by using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature, we can be sure that the seafood is cooked to perfection every time.

Finally, the resting time is crucial in this recipe. By letting the chowder rest for a few minutes before serving, we allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly, creating a rich and satisfying texture that's sure to impress.

Overall, this recipe works because it's a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and techniques. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and memorable meal that's sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Massachusetts Fish Chowder, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll need a combination of fresh seafood, potatoes, onions, and broth to create a rich and creamy soup. Here are the ingredients you'll need to get started:

Be sure to choose fresh and sustainable ingredients, and don't be afraid to substitute with what's available in your local market. The key is to use high-quality ingredients that will add depth and flavor to your dish.

1 lb (450g) cod, cut into 1-inch piecesCod is a firm-fleshed fish that holds up well to cooking and provides a nice texture contrast in the chowder. You can substitute with other firm-fleshed fish like haddock or halibut if you prefer.
1/2 lb (225g) haddock, cut into 1-inch piecesHaddock is a mild-flavored fish that adds a nice depth to the chowder. You can substitute with other mild-flavored fish like tilapia or mahi-mahi if you prefer.
1/2 lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveinedShrimp add a nice pop of color and flavor to the chowder. You can substitute with other types of seafood like scallops or mussels if you prefer.
2 medium potatoes, peeled and dicedPotatoes add a comforting depth to the chowder and help to thicken the soup. You can substitute with other types of potatoes like Yukon gold or red potatoes if you prefer.
1 large onion, dicedOnions add a sweet and savory flavor to the chowder and help to balance out the flavors. You can substitute with other types of onions like shallots or scallions if you prefer.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a pungent flavor to the chowder and helps to bring out the flavors of the seafood. You can substitute with other types of garlic like roasted garlic or garlic scapes if you prefer.
1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wineWhite wine adds a nice acidity to the chowder and helps to balance out the flavors. You can substitute with other types of wine like chicken or fish broth if you prefer.
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy creamHeavy cream adds a rich and creamy texture to the chowder and helps to thicken the soup. You can substitute with other types of cream like half-and-half or whole milk if you prefer.
2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butterButter adds a nice richness to the chowder and helps to bring out the flavors of the seafood. You can substitute with other types of fat like oil or ghee if you prefer.
1 tsp (5g) dried thymeThyme adds a nice herbal flavor to the chowder and helps to balance out the flavors. You can substitute with other types of herbs like parsley or dill if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are essential seasonings that help to bring out the flavors of the seafood and balance out the flavors of the chowder.

Ingredients for Massachusetts Fish Chowder

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenInstant-read thermometerSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Massachusetts Fish Chowder

1
Heat the butter in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it's melted and foamy.
2
Add the diced onion and cook until it's softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4
Add the cod, haddock, and shrimp to the pot and cook until they're lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5
Add the diced potatoes, white wine, and heavy cream to the pot and stir to combine.
6
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
7
Stir in the dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the seafood, which should reach 145 F (63 C).
9
Let the chowder rest for a few minutes before serving, which will help the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
10
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Expert Tips

Be sure to use fresh and sustainable ingredients to get the best flavor and texture out of your chowder.
Don't overcook the seafood, as it can become tough and rubbery.
Use a variety of seafood to add texture and flavor contrast to the chowder.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to find the combination that you like best.
Let the chowder rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
Serve the chowder with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Consider making a batch of chowder and freezing it for later, as it will keep for several months in the freezer.
Use a high-quality broth or stock to add depth and flavor to the chowder.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the seafood, which can make it tough and rubbery.
Not using enough liquid in the chowder, which can make it too thick and sticky.
Not seasoning the chowder enough, which can make it bland and unappetizing.
Not letting the chowder rest before serving, which can make it seem thin and unappetizing.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the chowder.
Not stirring the chowder enough, which can cause it to stick to the bottom of the pot and burn.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding other types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels, to the chowder.
Using different types of potatoes, such as Yukon gold or red potatoes, to add texture and flavor contrast.
Adding other spices and herbs, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, to the chowder to give it a unique flavor.
Using a different type of broth or stock, such as chicken or beef broth, to add depth and flavor to the chowder.
Adding other ingredients, such as diced bell peppers or chopped celery, to the chowder to add texture and flavor contrast.
Using a different type of cream or milk, such as half-and-half or whole milk, to add richness and creaminess to the chowder.
Making a spicy version of the chowder by adding diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.

What to Serve With Massachusetts Fish Chowder

Serve the Massachusetts Fish Chowder hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Consider serving the chowder with a variety of toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, or shredded cheese, to let everyone customize their own bowl.

Crusty breadFresh saladGrilled cheese sandwichRoasted vegetablesSliced meatsPickles

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The Massachusetts Fish Chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and steaming.

Be sure to label and date the container so you can easily keep track of how long it's been stored. You can also consider portioning out the chowder into individual containers for easy reheating and serving.

When reheating the chowder, be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. You can also add a little bit of water or broth to thin out the chowder if it's become too thick.

Overall, the Massachusetts Fish Chowder is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of year. With its rich and creamy texture and flavorful seafood, it's sure to become a favorite in your household.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of seafood should I use in the chowder?

You can use a variety of seafood, such as cod, haddock, and shrimp, to add texture and flavor contrast to the chowder. Be sure to choose fresh and sustainable ingredients to get the best flavor and texture out of your chowder.

How do I prevent the chowder from becoming too thick?

You can prevent the chowder from becoming too thick by using enough liquid and stirring it occasionally as it cooks. You can also add a little bit of water or broth to thin out the chowder if it becomes too thick.

Can I make the chowder ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chowder ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply thaw and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

What type of potatoes should I use in the chowder?

You can use a variety of potatoes, such as Yukon gold or red potatoes, to add texture and flavor contrast to the chowder. Be sure to choose high-quality potatoes that will hold up well to cooking.

How do I add flavor to the chowder?

You can add flavor to the chowder by using a variety of spices and herbs, such as thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. You can also add other ingredients, such as diced onions or chopped celery, to add texture and flavor contrast.

Can I make a spicy version of the chowder?

Yes, you can make a spicy version of the chowder by adding diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes. Be sure to adjust the level of heat to your taste.

How do I serve the chowder?

You can serve the chowder hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if desired. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Can I freeze the chowder?

Yes, you can freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

The Full Recipe

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