This creamy seafood hot pot is a warm, comforting dish filled with fresh seafood like shrimp, scallops, and fish. The rich broth adds a delicious flavor that’s simply irresistible!
It’s perfect for cozy nights with family or friends, and who doesn’t love a tasty soup? I enjoy serving it with crusty bread to soak up all that yummy broth! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Seafood Stock: If you can’t find seafood stock, chicken broth works well too! Homemade broth adds great flavor and is a nice touch if you have the time, but store-bought is a fine shortcut.
Seafood: This recipe is versatile; use any combination of shrimp, scallops, clams, or firm white fish you like. You could also add squid or crab for extra variety. If you’re vegetarian, consider using mushrooms and tofu!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk. Keep in mind that using coconut milk will change the flavor, but it can be delicious if you enjoy that taste!
White Wine: If you prefer to skip the alcohol, simply replace it with extra seafood stock or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
How Do I Ensure My Seafood is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking seafood can be tricky, but there are some easy guidelines. Remember, seafood cooks fast, so keep an eye on it!
- Always add seafood towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Scallops should be opaque and firm; they usually take just a few minutes. Too long, and they get rubbery!
- For clams or mussels, they are done when they’ve opened; discard any that remain closed.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly tender seafood every time! Enjoy your hot pot! 🦐🍲
How to Make Creamy Seafood Hot Pot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 4 cups seafood stock or fish broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb scallops or firm white fish fillets, cut into chunks
- 12 clams or mussels, cleaned
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp chives, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy seafood hot pot takes about 30 minutes total: around 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic, chopped onion, thinly sliced carrot, and finely chopped celery. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened. This step helps develop a flavorful base for your hot pot!
2. Add White Wine (Optional):
If you’re using white wine, pour it in now! Let it simmer for about 3 minutes, reducing it by half. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your broth.
3. Build the Broth:
Now it’s time to add the seafood stock (or fish broth) into the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This step helps the flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Creamy Addition:
Stir in the heavy cream and butter. Heat gently, making sure not to boil it. You want a smooth, creamy texture to your broth!
5. Add the Seafood:
Carefully add the shrimp, scallops (or your choice of fish), and cleaned clams or mussels into the pot. Cover it and cook for 5-7 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink, the scallops will be opaque, and the shellfish will open. Be sure to discard any shellfish that do not open because they are not safe to eat!
6. Final Touches:
Once the seafood is cooked, stir in the chopped parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot pot into bowls and garnish with more fresh parsley and chives on top. It’s delicious served immediately with crusty bread or over steamed rice for a heartier meal!
Enjoy your rich and creamy seafood hot pot with fresh herbs and tender seafood! It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in! 🦐🍲
Can I Use Frozen Seafood for This Hot Pot?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw your seafood in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the broth.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
You can replace the heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just remember that coconut milk will impart a slight coconut flavor, which can complement the seafood nicely!
What Should I Do with Leftover Seafood Hot Pot?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up as needed.
Can I Customize the Vegetables in the Hot Pot?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
