Step-By-Step Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder Recipe Guide – Soup Perfection

by Julia
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July 12, 2023

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Dive into the delightful depths of our Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder, where the smoky richness of salmon melds perfectly with the sweet crunch of corn. This exquisite chowder boasts a silky-smooth texture, interweaving the scrumptious flavors of tender smoked salmon and juicy corn kernels in a creamy, dreamy broth. Accented with dill, potatoes, and a hint of white wine, each spoonful is a dance of flavors that promises to leave you craving more. A true feast for the senses!

Tucked away in my grandmother’s recipe box, I stumbled upon a gem that evoked memories of chilly autumn evenings spent in her cozy kitchen.

A recipe scribbled on an old card – “Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder” – a heartwarming dish she lovingly prepared on those frost-kissed nights.

The smoky salmon and sweet corn blend and a velvety broth made this chowder an unforgettable comfort dish.

Today, I bring you that cherished culinary treasure infused with my own flair and the nostalgia of shared stories and laughter.

Loaded with rich flavors, each spoonful unfolds a narrative of a beloved family tradition. This recipe is a tribute to my grandmother’s mastery, effortlessly marrying simplicity and sophistication.

I invite you to journey with me through a cherished family legacy, one bowl at a time.

What Is Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder?

Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder is a rich and creamy soup that beautifully combines the smoky flavors of smoked salmon with the sweet freshness of corn.

This hearty dish is a favorite in many coastal and seaside communities, offering a unique twist on traditional chowder recipes.

Each spoonful of Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder offers a delightful balance of the salmon’s robust smokiness and the corn’s natural sweetness.

Whether served as a warming lunch on a cold day or as a hearty dinner with a slice of crusty bread, this chowder is a culinary delight that showcases the rich flavors of its main ingredients.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Keto

Substitute regular potatoes with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower or radishes. Also, use a high-fat dairy product like heavy cream instead of milk.

Paleo

Swap the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes and replace the milk with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk.

Gluten-Free

The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be cautious about the clam juice or fish stock you’re using. Make sure they are certified gluten-free if you’re buying them.

Whole30

Use ghee instead of olive oil, replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes, and switch the dairy milk with a Whole30-compliant option like coconut milk or almond milk. Be sure to leave out the corn, as it’s not Whole30 compliant.

Dairy-Free

Substitute the dairy milk with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk, which adds a delicious creaminess to the chowder. Use a dairy-free yogurt or omit it altogether.

Recipe Directions

Dice onion, potatoes, and salmon. Defrost corn if using frozen.
Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add onion and potatoes, sauté for 3-4 minutes.
Add urfa pepper, thyme, and corn, sauté for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in clam juice, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Uncover, add milk and Greek yogurt, stir until combined.
Add salmon, season with salt and pepper, cook for 5 minutes on medium-low heat.
Check seasoning, adjust if needed, and serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad. Enjoy the Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder!

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Different Seafood: While smoked salmon gives a unique flavor, you could also use other types of smoked fish like trout or white fish. Shellfish like clams, shrimp, or crab can also be used.
Spices: Experiment with other spices or herbs. Fennel, dill, or bay leaves can add a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: You could add other vegetables like bell peppers or celery for added crunch and flavor.

Add-Ons

Bacon: Cook some bacon until it’s crispy, remove it from the pot, and then start your chowder in the remaining bacon fat for an extra smoky, rich flavor.
Cheese: Adding some cheddar or cream cheese can make the chowder even creamier and more flavorful.
Heat: If you like a little heat in your chowder, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Toppings

Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives on top just before serving can add a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons can add a delightful crunch.
Extra Corn and Salmon: You can reserve a little cooked corn and salmon to top each bowl for a pleasing presentation.

Can I Make Chowder In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

Add all the ingredients except the milk, Greek yogurt, and salmon to your slow cooker. This includes the olive oil, diced onion, diced potatoes, spices, corn, and clam juice or fish stock.

Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, turn the heat to high (if it’s not already) and add the milk, Greek yogurt, and salmon.

Cook until the salmon is cooked through and the chowder is heated. Be sure to stir gently so as not to break up the salmon too much.

Instant Pot

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil, diced onion, and diced potatoes. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion is translucent.
Add the spices, corn, and clam juice or fish stock. Close the lid and seal the vent, then set to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
When the time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
Open the pot, switch back to sauté mode, and add the milk, Greek yogurt, and salmon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through and the chowder is heated.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can definitely use store-bought broth for your Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder. When selecting a broth, aim for high-quality, low-sodium options. This will provide the best flavor while also allowing you to control the salt level in your dish.

However, if you have the time and the resources, making your own broth can significantly enhance the flavor of your chowder. Homemade broth allows you to adjust the flavor profile to your liking, and it’s often a great way to make use of seafood scraps.

How To Serve?

Bowl Selection

Chowder is traditionally served in a deep bowl to keep it hot for longer and accommodate the hearty ingredients. A brightly colored or white bowl can contrast with the color of the chowder, making it visually appealing.

Garnishing

A fresh garnish can add a pop of color and enhance the flavors of the chowder. For Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder, a sprinkle of fresh thyme, a dash of paprika, or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper could be a perfect finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Chowder is often served with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side, perfect for dipping and adding a contrasting texture. A side salad with a bright vinaigrette can also balance the creaminess of the chowder.

Temperature

Chowder should be served hot. Ensure it’s properly heated before serving, but be careful not to let it boil, especially if it contains dairy, as this could cause it to curdle.

Serving Utensils

Provide a large, deep spoon for easy eating. If serving the chowder at a dinner party, you might consider a chowder tureen for an elegant presentation.

Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can contrast refreshingly with the creamy chowder. A simple green salad, tart apple, and fennel slaw would work well.

Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal grilled or roasted vegetables can add a smoky flavor and a different texture that pairs nicely with the chowder.

Cheese Board: A selection of your favorite cheeses, along with some grapes, olives, and high-quality crackers, can make a delightful pre-meal nibble or an after-meal cheese course.

Light Pasta: A small serving of light, garlic, and oil-based pasta dish like aglio e olio can be a nice accompaniment without overshadowing the chowder.

Perfect Side Dishes

Serving your Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder with a complimentary side dish can enhance your overall meal. Here are some options:

Crusty Bread: A piece of crusty bread or a fresh baguette would be a perfect accompaniment to sop up the creamy chowder.
Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can contrast refreshingly with the creamy chowder. A simple green salad, tart apple, and fennel slaw would work well.
Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal grilled or roasted vegetables can add a smoky flavor and a different texture that pairs nicely with the chowder.
Cheese Board: A selection of your favorite cheeses, along with some grapes, olives, and high-quality crackers, can make a delightful pre-meal nibble or an after-meal cheese course.
Light Pasta: A small serving of light, garlic, and oil-based pasta dish like aglio e olio can be a nice accompaniment without overshadowing the chowder.

Storage And Make Ahead

Properly store smoked salmon: Keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or sealed in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Prep ingredients ahead: Chop vegetables like onions, celery, and potatoes in advance and store them separately in the fridge.
Make broth in advance: Prepare the broth base and refrigerate or freeze it until ready to use.
Cook components separately: Smoke salmon separately from the chowder base to retain its flavor.
Assemble before serving: Combine ingredients and heat the chowder just before serving to preserve texture and taste.
Make ahead: Cook the chowder a day ahead, allowing flavors to meld, and reheat gently before serving.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Leftover Smoked Salmon Corn Chowder can be transformed in a variety of ways:

Rice or Quinoa Bowl: Warm up the leftover chowder and serve it over cooked rice or quinoa for a filling, nutritious meal.
Pasta Sauce: Lightly toss your leftover chowder with some cooked pasta. The creamy chowder makes for a delightful pasta sauce. Add some fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Baked Potato Topping: Reheat your leftover chowder and use it as a hearty topping for a baked potato. It adds a creamy, flavorful touch.
Fish Sauce: Use the chowder as a sauce for a grilled or pan-seared piece of fish. It’ll add a whole new flavor dimension to your dish.

TIPS

Choose the Right Squash: Look for butternut squash that is firm, heavy for its size, and has a matte skin without any blemishes or soft spots. This ensures freshness and optimal flavor.
Roasting for Depth of Flavor: Consider roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the soup. Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars in the squash, enhancing its sweetness and adding depth of flavor to the soup.
Variety of Spices: Experiment with different spices to add complexity to your soup. Common spices that pair well with butternut squash include cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Add them sparingly at first and adjust to taste.
Balance Sweetness with Acid: Butternut squash can be quite sweet, so balancing the sweetness with a touch of acid can elevate the flavors. A splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice towards the end of cooking can help brighten the soup.
Creamy Texture: For a creamy texture without adding cream, consider incorporating coconut milk or cashew cream instead. These dairy-free alternatives lend richness and silkiness to the soup while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Layer Flavors: Build layers of flavor by sautéing aromatics like onions, garlic, and shallots before adding the squash and broth. This step enhances the depth of the soup’s flavor profile.