Craving a taste of the coast without the beach trip? This creamy lobster corn chowder is your ticket to a luxurious and comforting meal, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s surprisingly easy to make, packed with flavour, and perfect for a cozy night in or a sophisticated dinner party. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this delicious and healthy seafood recipe, a true champion amongst quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Treasures
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of potato soup
- 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Bay leaf (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Culinary Journey Begins
Get Started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds the base flavor for our chowder.
Building the Flavor:
- Stir in the corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes. Now, add the chicken broth and bay leaf (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer. The bay leaf adds a subtle depth of flavor, feel free to omit if you don't have one on hand.
Creating the Creamy Texture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter and flour until smooth. Gradually whisk this mixture into the simmering soup, ensuring no lumps form. This is a classic roux technique, thickening the chowder beautifully. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup has thickened slightly.
Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the heavy cream and cream of potato soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the cooked lobster meat. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile in your homemade cooking.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from heat and discard the bay leaf (if used). Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and easy seafood recipe!
Tips and Tricks for Chowder Perfection
- Fresh vs. Frozen Lobster: Both work perfectly! If using frozen lobster, ensure it's fully thawed before adding it to the soup.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Thicker Chowder: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simmer it for a few more minutes after adding the cream.
- Seafood Variations: Feel free to add other seafood, like shrimp or scallops, alongside or instead of lobster. This makes a great base for experimenting with different delicious dishes.
- Make it Ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This is an approximate estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
This lobster corn chowder recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also relatively healthy and easy to prepare. Enjoy the process, and savor every spoonful of this coastal culinary delight!