A Spicy Shrimp, Corn, and Potato Chowder

5m
Prep Time
30m
Cook Time
35m
Ready In


"This is a old standby recipe that has been around for years. I have updated it a bit; but, kept it pretty much the same. It really doesn't take any time to make; and, it is very delicious. But, don't skip the bacon ... it really adds a lot of flavor to this dish. Serve with crusty bread for dipping; and a side salad if you want, for a delicious dinner."

Original is 5 servings
  • Garnish

Nutritional

  • Serving Size: 1 (685.7 g)
  • Calories 544.2
  • Total Fat - 25.7 g
  • Saturated Fat - 11.5 g
  • Cholesterol - 171.6 mg
  • Sodium - 1810.7 mg
  • Total Carbohydrate - 49.1 g
  • Dietary Fiber - 8.2 g
  • Sugars - 5.3 g
  • Protein - 32.9 g
  • Calcium - 253.3 mg
  • Iron - 3.8 mg
  • Vitamin C - 34.4 mg
  • Thiamin - 0.4 mg

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Roasted Peppers ... Personally, I like the mix of a poblano and a jalapeno. One medium heat; and, one spicy. But, use what you like. For those who don't enjoy that much spice, I suggest you go with 2 poblanos, or 1 poblano; and, one anaheim or cubanelle pepper, which are very mild.

Step 2

Now, there are a few ways to roast a pepper. Over an open flame, in a dry saute pan, on a grill; or, in a 450 degree oven. Any method will work the same. Make sure that the skin is charred and blackened on all sides. Then transfer the peppers to a small bowl, and cover with plastic wrap for 10-15 minutes. Once cooled - use the back of a knife, and scrape off the skin, as well as the seeds and ribs on the inside. DO NOT rinse under water, it gets rid of all that good flavor you just developed. Then, chop and set to the side. These can be done a day or two in advanced if needed.

Step 3

Bacon ... As the peppers rest, prepare the bacon. Add the bacon to the stock pot on medium heat, along with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the bacon slowly until it is rendered and crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Then, remove the bacon to a small plate on the side; but, don't throw out those drippings. Also, I like a hickory smoked bacon; it isn't necessary - but does offer a nice smoky flavor.

Step 4

Vegetable Base ... To the pot with the bacon drippings (still on medium heat); add the remaining olive oil, celery, shallots, onions, potatoes, and a pinch of salt and pepper; and saute for 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 5

Note: I usually use the Ore Ida diced frozen potatoes; but, you can use small red or white potatoes as well, just cut in quarters. Use whatever is easiest.

Step 6

Broth and Cream ... Add 1 1/2 cups broth, Old Bay seasoning, thyme sprigs, and bring to a light boil. Then, reduce to medium low heat, and simmer 5-8 minutes until the vegetables are just about done. Add the cream and cook just another minute or two to heat up.

Step 7

Thicken ... Add the remaining broth and flour to a small bowl or measuring cup, and mix to combine. Sometimes, you need to let it set a couple of minutes, until it is all combines. Then, slowly add the mix to the pot, whisking slowly, until everything is creamy and smooth. Bring to a light boil (medium high heat), and cook 1 minute. Then, reduce to medium low heat. I don't like the broth too thick; but, if you like it really thick, you can add a bit more broth/flour mix. Personally, I like to serve crusty bread to soak up all that good broth.

Step 8

Shrimp and Corn ... Add the corn, diced roasted peppers, and shrimp and cook just until the shrimp begin to curl and turn pink (about 3-5 minutes). Keep an eye on them, they go quickly. And DO NOT over cook.

Step 9

Finish and Serve ... Ladle into bowls, and top with a couple of dashes of hot sauce, parsley and chives; and, serve with crusty bread on the side. A side salad makes for a perfect light dinner. ENJOY!

Tips


No special items needed.

Editorial Notes

The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.


  • Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
  • If you don't like spicy food, use milder peppers like anaheim or cubanelle.

  • Instead of shrimp, use chicken for a heartier dish. The benefit of using chicken is that it is a more affordable protein option that will still provide plenty of flavor and texture.
  • Instead of potatoes, use sweet potatoes for a healthier option. The benefit of using sweet potatoes is that they are a great source of fiber and vitamins, and will add a subtle sweetness to the dish.

Vegetarian Version Replace the bacon with 1/2 cup of diced mushrooms and 1/2 cup of diced carrots. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Omit the shrimp and increase the potatoes to 4 cups. Add 1/2 cup of cooked black beans for extra protein.



Roasted Asparagus with Garlic and Lemon - This roasted asparagus dish is the perfect side for the Spicy Shrimp, Corn and Potato Chowder. The garlic and lemon add a nice zing to the asparagus and will complement the flavors of the chowder. Plus, the asparagus is a great source of vitamins and minerals which will make this a healthy and delicious meal.


Crispy Baked Parmesan Potatoes: Crispy Baked Parmesan Potatoes are a great side dish to go along with the Spicy Shrimp, Corn and Potato Chowder. This dish is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients and the result is golden, crispy potatoes with a delicious Parmesan cheese flavor. The potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates and will provide a nice balance to the chowder.




FAQ

Q: What type of pepper should I use?

A: You can use a poblano, anaheim, or cubanelle pepper. Poblano is medium heat and cubanelle is mild. Use what you prefer.



Q: What is the best way to store peppers?

A: Peppers should be stored in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration is also an option, but avoid placing them in a sealed plastic bag as this will cause them to spoil faster.

1 Reviews

Sheri

The only variation was I used canned creamed corn instead of corn kernals and it gave it lots of flavor and texture. Delicious!

5.0

review by:
(19 Feb 2014)

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Fun facts:

The dish known as chowder is believed to have originated in the early 18th century in the French provinces of Canada. The name is derived from the French word "chaudiere", which means "cauldron".

The Old Bay seasoning used in this recipe was created in 1939 by a German immigrant, Gustav Brunn, in Baltimore, Maryland. It is now a beloved and iconic seasoning blend in the United States, especially in the Chesapeake Bay region.