Introducing the delectable Sherry Seafood Chowder, a hearty dish that embodies the comforting flavors of the sea and the warmth of a cozy winter evening. This recipe, crafted with love and precision, promises to elevate your culinary experience to new heights. Let’s delve into the tantalizing details of this exquisite creation.
Sherry Seafood Chowder
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Recipe Category: Chowders
Keywords: One Dish Meal, Crab, Vegetable, Winter, Spicy, Weeknight, Stove Top, Less than 4 Hours, Easy
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons margarine
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery rib, diced
- 1/4 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup dry sherry
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 bay scallops
- 6 ounces lump crabmeat
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Crusty loaves of Italian or French bread, for serving
- Herb butter, optional
Instructions:
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Prepare the Base: In a large saucepan, melt the butter and margarine over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, celery, red bell pepper, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture until the onions are tender, which should take about 5 minutes.
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Infuse with Sherry: Pour the dry sherry into the pan, allowing it to cook off most of the alcohol while deglazing the bottom of the pan. This step adds a depth of flavor to the chowder, infusing it with the rich essence of the sherry.
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Add Broth and Potatoes: Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for approximately 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to soften.
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Introduce Flavorful Elements: Now, it’s time to elevate the flavor profile of the chowder. Add the diced tomatoes, bay leaf, sweet paprika, chili powder, celery seed, black pepper, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cover the pan again and allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly.
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Incorporate Seafood: Once the base is infused with aromatic spices, it’s time to introduce the star ingredients – the seafood. Stir in the peeled and deveined shrimp, bay scallops, and lump crabmeat. Allow the seafood to cook until the shrimp curl and turn a vibrant pink hue, and the scallops become opaque. This should take approximately 3 minutes.
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Final Touch: As a finishing touch, stir in the remaining 1/4 cup of chopped parsley. This adds a fresh burst of herbaceous flavor and vibrant color to the chowder, enhancing its visual appeal and taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the piping hot Sherry Seafood Chowder into bowls and serve it alongside crusty loaves of Italian or French bread. For an extra indulgent touch, consider serving herb butter alongside the bread, allowing your guests to spread it on the warm slices for an added layer of richness.
With its robust flavors and luxurious textures, this Sherry Seafood Chowder is sure to delight your senses and leave you craving more. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal or showcased as the star of a special winter gathering, this recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite among family and friends. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the unparalleled taste of the sea!
