Sablefish Chowder with Lemon – A Luxurious Twist on a Classic

If you love rich, velvety seafood chowder, this Sablefish Chowder with Lemon is a dish you need to try. Sablefish, also known as black cod, is a buttery, flaky fish that melts in your mouth, making it perfect for a luxurious and comforting chowder.

What makes this chowder special? The silky texture of sablefish, combined with a creamy broth, hearty vegetables, and a burst of fresh lemon, creates a perfect balance of richness and brightness. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or serving guests, this chowder is sure to impress.

Ready to make a seafood chowder that’s both deeply satisfying and elegantly fresh? Let’s get started!

What Is Sablefish Chowder with Lemon?

Sablefish Chowder with Lemon is a rich, creamy seafood soup made with buttery sablefish, hearty vegetables, and a bright touch of fresh lemon. It’s a comforting dish that combines the depth of a traditional chowder with the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture of sablefish.

Why Use Sablefish in Chowder?

Sablefish, also known as black cod, is prized for its silky, fatty texture and mild, sweet flavor. Unlike some firmer fish, sablefish holds up well in chowder while remaining tender and luscious.

Why Add Lemon to Chowder?

A squeeze of fresh lemon cuts through the richness of the creamy broth, enhancing the fish’s natural flavor and adding a bright, fresh contrast.

What Goes Well with Sablefish?

• Creamy bases – Sablefish pairs beautifully with rich, dairy-based chowders.
• Citrus flavors – Lemon, lime, and even a touch of white wine enhance its natural sweetness.
• Fresh herbs – Dill, parsley, and thyme add depth and freshness.
• Hearty vegetables – Potatoes, leeks, and carrots complement the creamy broth without overpowering the fish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sablefish Chowder with Lemon is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home. Here’s why you’ll love it:

✅ Rich & Velvety Texture – Sablefish is buttery, delicate, and melts in your mouth, making the chowder ultra-luxurious.
✅ Perfectly Balanced Flavor – The creamy broth and fresh lemon create the ideal mix of richness and brightness.
✅ Nutrient-Packed – Sablefish is high in omega-3 fatty acids, making this chowder both delicious and heart-healthy.
✅ Easy to Make – A one-pot meal that’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive for entertaining.
✅ Customizable – Add corn, bacon, or extra herbs to make it your own!

Ingredients Needed For Sablefish Chowder with Lemon

To make Sablefish Chowder with Lemon, you’ll need fresh, wholesome ingredients that create a rich and flavorful dish.

For the Chowder:

• 1 lb sablefish (black cod), skin removed, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 4 cups fish or seafood stock (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp thyme (dried or fresh)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (plus extra for serving)
• 1 tsp lemon zest

For Garnish (Optional but Recommended!):

🍋 Extra lemon wedges – For a fresh squeeze before serving.
🌿 Chopped fresh parsley or dill – Adds brightness and color.
🌽 Corn kernels – Adds a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Sablefish Chowder with Lemon

Follow these simple steps to make a rich, creamy Sablefish Chowder with Lemon that’s full of flavor and warmth.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt butter and add olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, leeks, carrots, and celery, then sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using), and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2: Make the Base

1. Sprinkle in flour and stir well to coat the vegetables, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually pour in fish stock (or chicken broth), stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Add diced potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Add the Sablefish & Cream

1. Gently stir in sablefish chunks, making sure they are submerged in the broth.
2. Reduce heat to low and let the fish poach for 5 minutes, until it flakes easily but is still tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream (or half-and-half) and lemon juice. Let the chowder warm through for 2 more minutes (do not boil).

Step 4: Final Touches & Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if needed.
2. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, extra lemon zest, and crispy bacon (optional).
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Best Sablefish Chowder with Lemon

Make your Sablefish Chowder with Lemon even better with these expert tips:

• Use High-Quality Sablefish – Fresh, wild-caught sablefish has the best buttery texture and delicate flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Fish – Sablefish is naturally tender, so poach it gently for 5 minutes until it flakes easily. Overcooking can make it fall apart too much.
• Balance the Richness with Lemon – The lemon juice and zest help cut through the creamy broth, adding brightness. Add just before serving for the best flavor.
• Choose the Right Potatoes – Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better than russets, giving the chowder a creamy yet hearty texture.
• Enhance with Fresh Herbs – Fresh parsley, dill, or chives add a burst of freshness that complements the buttery fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Sablefish Chowder with Lemon turns out perfectly rich, creamy, and flavorful every time:

❌ Overcooking the Sablefish – Poach the fish gently for 5 minutes to keep it tender and flaky. Overcooking makes it fall apart too much.

❌ Skipping the Lemon – Lemon juice and zest brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the chowder. Add them at the end for the best taste.

❌ Using the Wrong Potatoes – Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better than russet potatoes, which can turn mushy in the chowder.

❌ Forgetting to Sauté the Aromatics – Cooking onions, leeks, garlic, and celery in butter first helps develop deep, savory flavors.

Serving Suggestions For Sablefish Chowder with Lemon

Pair your Sablefish Chowder with Lemon with these delicious side dishes and accompaniments:

• Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast – Perfect for soaking up the creamy, flavorful broth.
• Light Side Salad – A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder.
• Oysters or Smoked Salmon – Serve with fresh oysters, smoked salmon, or a seafood platter for a luxurious meal.
• Roasted or Mashed Potatoes – If you love extra potatoes, serve with crispy roasted potatoes or buttery mashed potatoes.
• Corn on the Cob – The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with the savory, citrusy chowder.

💡 Want another rich and flavorful dish? Try this San Giorgio Lasagna for a hearty and satisfying Italian meal!

Health Benefits of Sablefish Chowder with Lemon

This Sablefish Chowder with Lemon isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome meal!

• Sablefish is Rich in Omega-3s – This fish is loaded with healthy fats that support heart health, brain function, and reduce inflammation.
• Fiber & Vitamins from Vegetables – Ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and leeks provide fiber, vitamin C, and essential minerals.
• Lemon for Antioxidants & Digestion – Fresh lemon boosts immunity, aids digestion, and brightens the flavor of the chowder.
• Protein-Packed & Satisfying – Sablefish and dairy in the chowder make it a high-protein meal that keeps you full and energized.
• Supports Gut Health – The combination of broth, fish, and fresh herbs can help promote digestion and overall wellness.

FAQs About Sablefish Chowder with Lemon

1. What goes well with sablefish?

Sablefish pairs well with creamy sauces, citrus flavors, fresh herbs, and mild vegetables like leeks, potatoes, and carrots. It’s also delicious with garlic butter, miso glaze, or a light white wine sauce.

2. What is the best seasoning for fish chowder?

The best seasonings for fish chowder include thyme, parsley, black pepper, garlic, and smoked paprika. Adding lemon juice or zest enhances the flavors and balances the creaminess.

3. Can you overcook sablefish?

Yes! Sablefish is very delicate, so it should be gently poached for 5 minutes in the chowder. Overcooking can make it fall apart too much or lose its buttery texture.

4. Why is sablefish so good?

Sablefish is loved for its rich, buttery texture and mild, sweet flavor. It’s also high in omega-3 fatty acids, making it one of the healthiest and most luxurious seafood options.

💡 Want another comforting seafood dish? Try this Lobster Mushroom Recipe for a rich, umami-packed gourmet experience!

Final Thoughts

Sablefish Chowder with Lemon is the perfect blend of rich, creamy comfort and bright, fresh flavors. The buttery, delicate sablefish melts into the chowder, while the lemon zest and juice bring balance and vibrancy.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or an elegant seafood night, this chowder is easy to prepare yet incredibly impressive. Pair it with crusty bread, a light salad, or a glass of white wine for a truly satisfying meal.

Give this luxurious and flavorful chowder a try—you won’t be disappointed!