Shrimp Chowder with Fennel (Dairy Free)

There’s something about soup season that just feels grounding — especially this time of year when schedules are full and everyone wants something warm, comforting, and satisfying. This shrimp chowder is one of my go-to winter favorites. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, naturally dairy-free, and always a hit with the kids.

I love recipes like this because they check so many boxes: nourishing, simple ingredients, and flexible enough to work with what you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for your family or making a batch to enjoy for lunches during the week, this chowder is worth adding to your rotation.

Give it a try and let me know what you think! 🍲🦐

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds small white shrimp (26 to 40 count)

• 4 slices of bacon cut into ⅓-inch dice

• 1 small bulb fennel chopped

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 5 cloves garlic, crushed

• 1 ½ pounds Yukon Gold, Maine, PEI, or other all-purpose potatoes, peeled, quartered, and sliced ¼-inch thick

• 4 cups seafood stock (if you don't have you can use chicken stock)

• Kosher or sea salt to your liking

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 can diced tomatoes 14. 5 ounce or fresh chopped tomatoes about 2 cups

• 1 - 13.5 ounce can coconut milk

• Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Peel and cut shrimp into smaller pieces. Will be added later.

2. Heat a 4- to 6-quart heavy pot over low heat and add the bacon. Once it has rendered a few tablespoons of fat, increase the heat to medium and cook until the bacon is a crisp golden brown.

3. Remove bacon from the pan and save for adding in later.

4. Add the crushed garlic, fennel, and diced onion. Saute until translucent.

5. Add diced potatoes and put the cover on the pot to steam them. About 10 minutes.

6. Add seafood stock, tomatoes, and coconut milk. Simmer until potatoes are soft. When ready add shrimp to soup and cook until pink. 5-10 minutes.

7. Add bacon to the soup.

8. Taste the chowder and season with salt and pepper to your liking!

Why I Love This Recipe (From a Functional Nutrition Lens)

• 🦐 High-quality protein from shrimp supports muscle, metabolism, and satiety

• 🥔 Potatoes provide potassium and easy-to-digest carbohydrates

• 🥥 Coconut milk adds healthy fats for blood sugar balance and satisfaction

• 🌿 Fennel and garlic support digestion