New Zealand Seafood Chowder
A rich and creamy seafood chowder showcasing the fresh seafood bounty of New Zealand, often featuring local ingredients like kūmara (sweet potato) alongside a medley of fish and shellfish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 clove Garlic(crushed)
- 1 stalk Celery stalk(chopped)
- 1 large Kūmara (sweet potato)(peeled and cut into small chunks)
- 400 ml Vegetable or fish stock
- 1 tsp Thyme(freshly chopped)
- 100 g Scallops
- 100 g Prawns
- 100 g Shrimps
- 100 g Firm white fish (e.g., Tarakihi, Hoki)(cut into medium-sized chunks)
- 1 kg Green-lip mussels(steamed open, de-bearded)
- 250 g Cream or crème fraîche
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Add the kūmara chunks and stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the kūmara is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 3
Add the scallops, prawns, shrimps, and fish chunks to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until just cooked through.
⏱️ 1-2 minutes - 4
Stir in the steamed mussels and chopped thyme. Cook for another minute.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cream or crème fraîche. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently without boiling until the chowder is thick and creamy.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Crusty bread is a great accompaniment.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use the freshest seafood available for the best flavor.
- ✓Don't overcook the seafood, as it can become tough.
- ✓You can substitute potato for kūmara if preferred.
- ✓A splash of white wine can be added with the stock for extra flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like corn or leeks.
- Use a variety of local fish and shellfish.