Seafood Chili

Seafood Chili

Seafood chili is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic chili, offering the perfect balance of heat, heartiness, and freshness.

Instead of the traditional beef or turkey, this version uses a variety of fresh seafood, such as shrimp, crab, and white fish, creating a light yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for those who love seafood.

The combination of tomatoes, chili spices, and seafood delivers a robust flavor profile that will have you coming back for more. Whether served with cornbread or over rice, seafood chili is an exciting way to enjoy a comforting bowl of chili with a coastal flair.

Ingredients:

For the Seafood:

1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into chunks

1/2 lb crab meat (optional, can be substituted with scallops or more shrimp)

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chili Base:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

1 bell pepper, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

1 cup seafood stock (or vegetable broth)

1 cup white wine (optional)

1 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1/2 tsp oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional for added texture)

For Garnish:

Fresh cilantro, chopped

Sour cream or Greek yogurt

Lime wedges

Shredded cheese (optional)

How to Make:

Prepare the Seafood: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp, fish, and crab (if using) with salt and pepper. Add the seafood to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and the fish is cooked through. Remove the seafood from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Build the Chili Base: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, seafood stock, and white wine (if using) to the pot with the vegetables. Stir to combine. Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add the Beans and Seafood: If you’re using beans, add them to the pot and stir them in. Add the cooked seafood back into the pot and gently stir to incorporate. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the seafood to heat through and absorb the chili flavors.

Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder for a spicier kick. If the chili is too thick, you can add a little more seafood stock or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve: Ladle the seafood chili into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired. Serve with cornbread or over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Chef’s Note:

This seafood chili is a great way to use a variety of fresh seafood, and you can customize the ingredients based on what’s available. Feel free to substitute different fish like salmon or tilapia, or add scallops for extra texture. For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add fresh chopped jalapeños. You can also make the chili ahead of time and let the flavors meld overnight, which can make the dish even more flavorful.

For a more filling version, try serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa, or alongside a side of crusty bread. The seafood’s delicate flavor pairs beautifully with the bold and spicy chili base.

Nutrition Information (per serving, 4 servings total):

Calories: 310

Protein: 35g

Carbohydrates: 18g

Fat: 12g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 135mg

Sodium: 580mg

Fiber: 5g

Sugars: 7g

Seafood chili offers a delicious twist on a beloved classic, providing the perfect balance of warmth, spice, and seafood flavors. Whether you’re craving something light yet satisfying or need a dish to impress at your next gathering, this seafood chili will deliver every time. Full of flavor and packed with protein, it’s a healthy, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this seafood chili with a squeeze of lime and a dollop of sour cream for an added touch of freshness!