Seafood Chowder with Oyster Crackers

Ingredients

• 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, fish fillets), peeled and deveined
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups seafood or vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Oyster crackers, for serving
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Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add finely chopped onion, diced celery, and diced carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to create a roux.

5. Gradually whisk in seafood or vegetable broth to avoid lumps.

6. Add diced potatoes, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender.

7. Stir in mixed seafood and cook until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

8. Pour in whole milk or half-and-half to create a creamy base. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

9. Discard the bay leaf.

10. Adjust seasoning if needed.

11. Ladle the Seafood Chowder into bowls.

12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

13. Serve with oyster crackers on the side for a satisfying crunch.

Enjoy this comforting and hearty Seafood Chowder, perfect for chilly days!