Maine's Creamy Shrimp Chowder Recipe: A Taste of New England Coastal Comfort

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In the crisp air of Maine, where the Atlantic Ocean meets rugged coastlines, there's a dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table—Shrimp Chowder. Known for its hearty and rich flavors, this classic dish encapsulates the essence of coastal living in the Northeast. With fresh ingredients and a creamy broth, Maine’s Shrimp Chowder is a soul-soothing meal perfect for chilly days or casual family dinners.

The Heart of Maine's Coastal Cuisine
Maine is renowned for its fresh seafood, and shrimp chowder is one of the many delights that reflect the state’s deep connection to the sea. This creamy soup is made with tender shrimp, savory potatoes, and rich cheese, creating a balanced dish that brings together land and sea. A bowl of shrimp chowder not only satisfies hunger but evokes the spirit of Maine’s fishing towns, where seafood is a way of life.

Whether you're a lifelong Mainer or just someone who loves the flavors of the ocean, this Shrimp Chowder will warm you from the inside out. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it's a recipe that anyone can master, allowing you to bring the taste of Maine's coast to your kitchen.

Recipe: Maine Shrimp Chowder

Ingredients:

• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup boiling water
• 3 medium russet potatoes, cut into cubes
• ¼ cup celery, chopped
• 2 cans cocktail shrimp (106g cans, drained and rinsed)
• 2 ½ cup milk
• ½ cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp celery salt
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Directions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, taking care not to brown it.
2. Add the celery, potatoes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and celery salt. Pour in the boiling water and let the mixture cook on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes become tender.
3. Lower the heat to medium-low, then pour in the milk and gently add the drained shrimp. Allow it to cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
4. Stir in the fresh parsley, Swiss cheese, and cheddar cheese, letting the cheeses melt and thicken the chowder.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for an authentic Maine experience.

The Final Bite: This creamy and savory Shrimp Chowder offers a taste of Maine’s coastal heritage with every spoonful. The blend of melted Swiss and cheddar cheeses adds richness, while the delicate cocktail shrimp brings a briny sweetness that pairs perfectly with the hearty potatoes and aromatic parsley. Whether served as a main course on a cold day or a starter at a family gathering, this chowder is sure to bring comfort and joy to anyone lucky enough to try it.

As you savor this dish, you'll feel a connection to Maine's coastal culture—a place where seafood is king, and hearty meals like shrimp chowder are a staple in homes across the state. The warmth, flavor, and simplicity of this chowder make it a timeless recipe that everyone can enjoy.

Here are some sources for making a delicious Maine-style Shrimp Chowder:

1. Saveur's Maine Shrimp Chowder highlights the use of fresh, local shrimp from Maine, simmered with bacon and potatoes to create a rich, flavorful chowder. It avoids using flour, making it a lighter version of traditional chowder. You can find the recipe here​(Saveur).
2. Grey Havens Inn's Seafood Chowder offers a gourmet take on Maine seafood chowder, incorporating shrimp and other seafood with a rich, creamy base made from half-and-half or heavy cream. This version is famous for its balance of flavors and can be enjoyed seasonally at their restaurant. Recipe details are available here​(Grey Havens).
3. Tasty Kitchen's Maine Seafood Chowder provides another variation with a focus on using leeks and shrimp stock, giving it a more savory depth. This recipe uses both shrimp and bay scallops, making it a hearty and satisfying chowder for seafood lovers. You can check the recipe here​(Tasty Kitchen).

These sources will help you recreate a cozy bowl of authentic Maine-style Shrimp Chowder!