Seafood Chowder
Nothing beats a hearty and delicious chowder that soothes the soul. Whether it is New England , Bermudian, or the Manhattan, it’s hard to beat! Here is my version of a classic chowder with wild caught cod and just pure certified organic ingredients. To simply elevate the flavors in this dish, i made homemade old bay seasoning, picked up a dry white wine from France and fresh herbs. With only 15 minutes of prep and about 45 minutes of cooking time, this restaurant style dish was created in no time at all. It was truly marvelous!!
Cod is such a common fish that is utilized in various dishes and we tend to overlook how nutritious it really is. Cod has historically been enjoyed not only fresh but salted, smoked, and dried. The Massachusetts town of Cape Cod got it’s name from the cod fish that were once prolific in their waters. All of the cod that is available on the market is caught in the wild. There is the pacific and the Atlantic (haddock). Cod is very light with a mild flavor that it can easily adapt in various dishes.
Did you know, cold water fish, like cod, have been shown to be a protein rich food that is beneficial for people looking to support cardiovascular health?! Cod is also a great source of omega three fatty acids which are beneficial on blood lipid levels. With fish consumption, it can reduce the incidence of colon cancer. Cod has a concentrated source of energy-producing phosphorus and tryptophan for a better nights sleep. This super simple super food has many health benefits for your overall health. There is no reason in NOT having any.
Serves: 6
INGREDIENTS:
2 tbsp unsalted organic butter
1 cup medium organically grown onion, diced
1 cup organically grown celery, finely diced
2 tbsp flour, or corn starch
1 cup organically grown carrots, finely diced
1 cup dry white wine
1 large certified organic tomato, chopped
6 cups filtered water
3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme
dash of dried parsley, or fresh
sea salt, to taste
black pepper, to taste
dash of homemade old bay seasoning
2 cups organic potatoes
1 pound white fish, skinned and cubed (haddock, cod, or Tilapia)
1/2 cup light cream
HOMEMADE OLD BAY SEASONING:
INGREDIENTS:
1 tbsp ground bay leaves
2 tbsp celery salt
1 tbsp paprika
1-1/2 tsp ground dry mustard
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/8 tsp ground all spice
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp cayenne
1/4 tsp ground mace
1/4 tsp cardamon
(Combine all ingredients. Store in an airtight container and store in a cool place. Use with seafood, chicken, or fries. Makes about 1/4 cup).
INSTRUCTIONS:
Melt butter in a large stock pot. Sweat the onions, carrots and celery for about 5 minutes, or until slightly tender.
Sprinkle with flour and stir to coat evenly with vegetables.
Add the wine and tomatoes; stir to blend.
Add the filtered water, salt, pepper and thyme. Cook for 20 minutes. Then add the cubed potatoes.
Cook for another 20 minutes. Then add the fish.
Reduce heat and simmer on low for about 10 minutes. Then stir in cream. Bring up to medium heat and stir occasionally. Do NOT boil.
Place in serving bowls. Garnish with herbs, soup crackers and/or a pinch of cayenne for heat factor.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE: Calories 133; Total Fat 7.2g; Cholesterol 21mg; Sodium 94mg; Total Carbohydrates 9.5g; Dietary Fiber 2.2g; Sugars 3.1g; Protein 2g; vitamin A 67%, calcium 5%, vitamin C 18% and iron 15%. This is high in iron, very high in vitamin A, B6 and high in vitamin C type of dish.