Oyster Chowder

Introduction

Oyster chowder is a comforting and delicious soup that is full of flavour and texture. This creamy chowder is made with shucked oysters, butter, onion, celery, half-and-half, chicken broth, and herbs and spices. It’s a hearty dish that is sure to please everyone around the dinner table. 

Ease of Preparation

Oyster chowder is a relatively easy dish to make, and it doesn’t require a lot of time or effort. All you need to do is sauté the vegetables in butter, stir in the flour and other ingredients, and simmer until the chowder is thick and creamy. This dish can be served as a main course or a side dish, and it will surely be a hit with everyone. 

Nutritional Information

Oyster chowder is a nutritious and filling meal. One serving of this chowder contains approximately 202 calories, 11.2 grams of fat, 14.4 grams of protein, and 11.4 grams of carbohydrates. It is also a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and other essential vitamins and minerals. 

Ingredients

-2 cups shucked oysters with their liquor

-3 tablespoons butter

-1/4 cup diced onion

-1/4 cup diced celery

-2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

-2 cups half-and-half

-1 cup chicken broth

-1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

-1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

-1/4 teaspoon paprika

-1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

-1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

-1/4 teaspoon salt

-1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

-1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

Preparation Method

To make oyster chowder, begin by heating the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add the half-and-half chicken broth and the oysters with their liquor. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the thyme, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, stir in the parsley and dill and remove the chowder from the heat. Serve warm. 

Cooking Tips

When making oyster chowder, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to use fresh oysters for the best flavour. Also, if you would like a thicker chowder, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture before bringing it to a boil. Finally, if you want to add a bit of heat to the chowder, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper. 

Flavour/Taste

Oyster chowder has a rich and creamy flavour with a hint of sweetness from the oysters. The herbs and spices add a subtle depth of flavour to the chowder, while the fresh parsley and dill give it a bright and refreshing finish. 

Best Dishes Paired With

Oyster chowder can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and salads. It also makes a great accompaniment to crusty bread or a bowl of steamed rice. 

Origin of Dish and History

Oyster chowder has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the 19th century, and it has since become a popular dish in many countries around the world. 

Popular Alternatives

If you’re looking for a different way to enjoy oysters, there are many other dishes that you can try. Oysters can be grilled, fried, or even served raw. You can also make oyster stew, similar to chowder but made with a tomato-based broth. Oysters can also be added to salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes for a delicious and healthy meal.