Salmon Chowder

  • 1/3 pound bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons water (30ml)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 8 ounces; 225g)
  • 4 large ribs celery, finely chopped (about 6 ounces; 170g)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (about 20g)
  • 1 cup bottled clam juice or fish broth (235ml)
  • 1 quart whole milk (900ml)
  • 1 pound russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (450g)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 filets of salmon
  • Minced fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives, for serving
  1. Combine salt pork or bacon and water in a heavy-bottomed stock pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until water has evaporated and pork has begun to brown and crisp in spots, about 8 minutes.
  2. Add onion, and celery. Season gently with salt and pepper and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are softened but not browned, about 4 minutes longer. Add flour and cook, stirring, until no pockets of raw flour remain. Stir in clam juice, followed by milk. Add potatoes and bay leaf and bring to a simmer.
  3. Simmer chowder, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fully tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in fish chunks and simmer just until cooked through, about 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  4. Serve immediately, garnished with minced fresh herbs.