RecipesScotlandScottish Fish Chowder

Scottish Fish Chowder

A creamy and comforting chowder featuring flaky white fish, smoked haddock, and root vegetables, simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. A warming dish perfect for a chilly day.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings5
DifficultyEasy
Scottish Fish Chowder - Scotland traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 200 g Smoked haddock(skinless and boneless, cut into chunks)
  • 400 g White fish fillets (cod, haddock, or pollock)(skinless and boneless, cut into chunks)
  • 400 g Potatoes(peeled and diced)
  • 2 medium Leeks(white and light green parts only, thinly sliced)
  • 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
  • 2 Celery stalks(finely chopped)
  • 30 g Butter
  • 30 g All-purpose flour
  • 500 ml Milk
  • 500 ml Fish or vegetable stock
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste White pepper

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, leeks, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.

    ⏱️ 10 minutes
    💡 Tip: Do not brown the vegetables; they should be tender.
  2. 2

    Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.

    ⏱️ 2 minutes
    💡 Tip: Cooking the flour removes the raw taste.
  3. 3

    Gradually whisk in the fish or vegetable stock and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.

    💡 Tip: Whisking prevents lumps from forming.
  4. 4

    Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Season with salt and white pepper. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

    ⏱️ 20 minutes
    💡 Tip: Ensure the chowder is simmering gently, not boiling vigorously.
  5. 5

    Add the chunks of smoked haddock and white fish to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.

    ⏱️ 7 minutes
    💡 Tip: Be careful not to overcook the fish.
  6. 6

    Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and white pepper if needed.

    💡 Tip: Smoked haddock can be salty, so taste before adding more salt.
  7. 7

    Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

    💡 Tip: Serve hot with crusty bread.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a richer chowder, you can add a splash of double cream at the end of cooking.
  • If you prefer a thicker chowder, use less stock or milk, or add more flour to the roux.
  • Ensure you use good quality smoked haddock for the best flavor.

🔄 Variations

  • Add sweetcorn or peas for extra sweetness and color.
  • Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth.
  • Use different types of fish, such as salmon or mackerel.

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