Hearty Halibut Chowder: A Creamy, Comforting Delight

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of chowder, especially when the weather turns chilly. This hearty halibut chowder recipe takes the classic chowder to a new level, showcasing the delicate flavor of halibut in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special weekend gathering, this chowder is sure to become a family favorite.

## Why Halibut for Chowder?

Halibut is a fantastic choice for chowder due to its firm texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. Unlike some other fish that can become mushy when cooked in liquid, halibut holds its shape well, providing satisfying chunks in every spoonful. Its delicate flavor complements the creamy broth and other ingredients without overpowering them.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.

* **Halibut:** 2 pounds, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
* **Bacon:** 6 slices, diced
* **Onion:** 1 large, chopped
* **Celery:** 2 stalks, chopped
* **Carrots:** 2 medium, peeled and diced
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves, minced
* **Potatoes:** 2 pounds, Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and cubed
* **Chicken Broth:** 6 cups
* **Heavy Cream:** 2 cups
* **Dry White Wine:** 1/2 cup (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
* **Fresh Thyme:** 2 sprigs
* **Bay Leaf:** 1
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 2 tablespoons
* **Salt:** To taste
* **Black Pepper:** To taste
* **Fresh Parsley:** Chopped, for garnish
* **Optional Garnishes:** Oyster crackers, hot sauce

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create a perfect pot of halibut chowder.

### 1. Prepare the Bacon and Vegetables

* In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
* Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

### 2. Build the Broth

* Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux. This will help thicken the chowder.
* Gradually whisk in the dry white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the alcohol evaporates.
* Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
* Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

### 3. Add the Halibut and Cream

* Gently stir in the cubed halibut. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the halibut is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the halibut, as it can become dry.
* Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf from the chowder.
* Stir in the heavy cream and butter. Heat through gently, but do not boil.

### 4. Season and Serve

* Season the chowder with salt and black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt content, as the bacon and chicken broth may already contain salt.
* Stir in the cooked bacon.
* Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with oyster crackers or a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.

## Tips for the Best Halibut Chowder

* **Use Fresh, High-Quality Halibut:** The flavor of the halibut is the star of this chowder, so using the freshest, highest-quality halibut you can find will make a big difference.
* **Don’t Overcook the Halibut:** Halibut can become dry and rubbery if overcooked. Cook it just until it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
* **Adjust the Thickness:** If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork or use an immersion blender to partially puree the chowder. Be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some chunks of potatoes and halibut.
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the chowder, such as corn, peas, or green beans. Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they don’t become overcooked.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** To make this chowder gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the broth.
* **Spice it Up:** For a spicier chowder, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
* **Make Ahead:** The chowder can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavor may even improve as the ingredients meld together. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
* **Freezing:** While you can technically freeze chowder, the texture of the potatoes and cream may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

## Variations and Additions

This halibut chowder recipe is delicious as is, but you can also customize it to your liking with these variations and additions:

* **Smoked Halibut Chowder:** Use smoked halibut for a smoky flavor. Reduce the amount of bacon or omit it altogether, as smoked halibut already has a smoky taste.
* **Corn and Halibut Chowder:** Add 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) to the chowder during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
* **Clam and Halibut Chowder:** Add 1 can (6.5 ounces) of minced clams, drained, to the chowder during the last 5 minutes of cooking. You can also add 1/2 cup of clam juice to the broth for a more intense clam flavor.
* **Spicy Halibut Chowder:** Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chowder.
* **Vegetarian Chowder:** Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini.

## Serving Suggestions

This hearty halibut chowder is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

* **Crusty Bread:** For dipping into the creamy broth.
* **Oyster Crackers:** A classic chowder accompaniment.
* **Side Salad:** A light salad to balance the richness of the chowder.
* **Grilled Cheese Sandwich:** A comforting combination.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 450-550 per serving
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 25-35 grams
* Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams

(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

## Halibut Selection and Sustainability

When purchasing halibut, look for firm, white flesh that is free of any discoloration or fishy odor. Fresh halibut is best, but frozen halibut can also be used if it has been properly thawed.

Consider the source of your halibut. Pacific halibut, managed by the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC), is generally considered a sustainable choice. Look for halibut that has been certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or other reputable sustainability organizations. These certifications indicate that the halibut has been harvested in a responsible manner that minimizes environmental impact.

Avoid Atlantic halibut, as it is overfished and considered a species of concern.

## Equipment You Might Need

* Large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Slotted spoon
* Whisk
* Ladle

## Printable Recipe Card

recipe
**Hearty Halibut Chowder**

A creamy and comforting chowder featuring tender halibut, potatoes, and a rich broth.

**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 45 minutes
**Serves:** 6-8

**Ingredients:**

* 2 pounds halibut, skinless, cubed
* 6 slices bacon, diced
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 stalks celery, chopped
* 2 carrots, diced
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 pounds potatoes, cubed
* 6 cups chicken broth
* 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
* 2 cups heavy cream
* 2 tbsp butter
* 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
* 2 sprigs fresh thyme
* 1 bay leaf
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving fat in the pot.
2. Add onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Cook until softened (5-7 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Whisk in white wine (if using), scraping up browned bits.
6. Pour in chicken broth, add potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until potatoes are tender (15-20 minutes).
8. Gently stir in halibut. Cook until cooked through (5-7 minutes).
9. Remove thyme and bay leaf.
10. Stir in heavy cream and butter. Heat through, do not boil.
11. Season with salt and pepper.
12. Stir in cooked bacon.
13. Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.

## Conclusion

This hearty halibut chowder is a truly satisfying and delicious meal. The combination of tender halibut, creamy broth, and flavorful vegetables makes it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful halibut chowder!