This Smoked Haddock Chowder is a rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful dish that combines smoky haddock, tender potatoes, leeks, and sweet corn in a luxurious, velvety broth. It's the perfect comfort food for chilly days, offering a balance of smokiness, creaminess, and freshness. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
For the Chowder Base
½ kg smoked haddock fillets, skin removed
2 cups whole milk
2 cups fish or vegetable stock
1 bay leaf
½ tsp black peppercorns
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large leek, thinly sliced (white and light green parts only)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
½ cup heavy cream
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp white pepper (optional, for extra warmth)
For Garnish
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 strips crispy bacon, crumbled (optional)
Crusty bread, for serving