Copper River Coho Salmon Corn Chowder

By Michelle Abendschan

Courtesy of our partner, Copper River Marketing Association

Indulge in the rich flavors of Copper River Coho Salmon Corn Chowder, a hearty dish guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Featuring the savory notes of smoked bacon, crisp vegetables, and succulent Copper River Coho Salmon, this chowder is a culinary delight. Enhanced with aromatic spices and a hint of pale ale, it boasts bold and vibrant flavors. Treat yourself to a comforting bowl of seafood goodness and savor every spoonful.

Copper River Coho Salmon Corn Chowder

Ingredients

½ lb Copper River Coho Salmon fillet, skin discarded and flesh cut into ½-inch pieces

2 tbs diced pancetta or bacon

1 small onion, diced

1 carrot, diced

2 celery ribs, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp unsalted butter

2 tsp all-purpose flour

½ tsp smoked paprika

¼ tsp powdered ginger

¼ pale ale (or other light beer)

1 cup vegetable or fish broth

¾ cup water

½ cup heavy cream

1 russet potato, scrubbed and diced

1 ear of corn, husked and kernels cut off

2 tbsp minced chives

Directions 

1. Cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until it's crispy. Then, set it aside and dispose of the fat.

2. In the same pan, sauté the butter, onion, carrot, garlic, and celery over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until they become soft.

3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and continue cooking while stirring for about 3 minutes.

4. Stir in the paprika and ginger, cooking for approximately 1 minute.

5. Pour in the ale, vegetable broth, water, and cream. Bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Add diced potatoes and corn kernels to the chowder. Let it simmer uncovered for around 12-15 minutes.

7. Once the potatoes are tender, add the Copper River Coho Salmon to the chowder. Continue simmering for about 5 minutes or until the salmon is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.

8. Serve the chowder hot, garnished with chives, reserved bacon, and salt and pepper to taste.

Fun fact STORY

Corn chowder, with its colonial origins, has evolved into a beloved and versatile dish in North American cuisine. Originally an economical and comforting meal, it reflects the fusion of Indigenous, European, and American culinary traditions. Known for its adaptability, regional variations incorporate ingredients like seafood, making it a seasonal favorite and a canvas for culinary creativity. As a symbol of diverse and dynamic food culture, corn chowder continues to be a celebrated comfort food, a convenient and accessible option for households, contributing to its widespread popularity.

*Visit our store for more wild Alaskan seafood, such as Copper River Sockeye and King Salmon, Wild Alaskan Halibut, Wild Alaskan Black Cod (Sablefish), and more.