Bobby Flay’s Crab & Corn Chowder Recipe
Bobby Flay’s Crab & Corn Chowder is a rich and flavorful coastal-inspired soup combining sweet corn, succulent lump crab meat, and aromatic spices in a creamy base. Perfectly balanced with smoked paprika, cayenne, and fresh herbs, this comforting chowder brings a touch of seaside charm to your table in just 45 minutes.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 cups seafood stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 pound lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Begin with Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, stir occasionally until they soften and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant, infusing the base with aroma.
- Spice It Up: Stir in smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to bloom the spices, enhancing the chowder’s depth and complexity.
- Incorporate Corn: Add corn kernels to the pot. Use fresh corn for vibrant sweetness or thawed frozen corn for convenience.
- Create the Base: Pour in seafood stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This introduces an authentic coastal flavor to the chowder.
- Introduce Creaminess: Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk, stirring smoothly to combine. This will create a rich and creamy texture that melds with the stock.
- Add Crab Meat: Gently fold in lump crab meat, being careful to preserve the delicate texture and flavor of the crab.
- Final Seasoning: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, balancing and enhancing the delicate ingredients without overpowering them.
- Finishing Touches: Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add color and a fresh aromatic burst that brightens the chowder.
Notes
- Using fresh crab meat will yield the best flavor, but quality canned crab is a convenient alternative.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level to your preference.
- Fresh corn can be substituted with frozen; just thaw it before adding.
- Seafood stock can be replaced with fish or vegetable stock if unavailable.
- This chowder pairs well with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Keywords: crab chowder, corn chowder, seafood soup, Bobby Flay recipe, creamy chowder, seafood stock, lump crab meat, easy chowder