Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Classic Chowder:
- 2-3 lobsters (about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds each) or about .5-.75 lbs of lobster meat)
- 4 cups fish or seafood stock (vegetable stock also works well)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
For the Dairy-Free Option:
- Replace the butter with a dairy-free butter substitute or olive oil.
- Replace whole milk and heavy cream with 3 cups of unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster
Steam the lobsters (if using whole):
- Add 3–4 inches of water to a large pot and bring to a rolling boil.
- Place lobsters claws first into the pot (keep rubber bands on).
- Cover and steam for 8–10 minutes for the first pound, plus 2–3 minutes for each additional pound.
- When done, the lobsters will be bright red, and the antennae should pull off easily.
- Let cool, then crack the shells and remove the meat. Reserve juices.
Step 2: Make the Chowder
- In a large soup pot, melt butter (or heat oil for dairy-free).
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in potatoes, corn, and lobster meat. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the seafood (or vegetable) stock. Add bay leaves and thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in whole milk and cream (or dairy-free substitute). Simmer another 10–15 minutes.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra lobster pieces if desired.
Variations
- Spicy Lobster Chowder: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for heat
- Bacon & Cheddar Twist: Top with crispy bacon and shredded sharp cheddar
- Gluten-Free Version: Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour to thicken if needed
- Smoky Version: Add a dash of smoked paprika or fire-roasted corn
Why This Chowder Stands Out
- Combines sweet corn and lobster for a classic coastal flavor
- Can be made classic, dairy-free, or gluten-free
- Easily customizable with spice, bacon, or cheese
- Pairs perfectly with crusty bread or oyster crackers
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!