Creamy Slow Cooker Fish Chowder – A Diabetes-Friendly Comfort Food
- Eliane Muskus
- Mar 19
- 4 min read
Rich, Flavorful & Low-Carb – This Slow Cooker Fish Chowder is Packed with Protein & Healthy Ingredients
A Creamy, Flavorful Chowder Without the Guilt
There’s something comforting about a warm bowl of fish chowder, especially when it’s light, nutritious, and diabetes-friendly. This slow-cooker chowder is packed with fresh fish, tender vegetables, and a creamy yet light broth that won’t spike blood sugar levels. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that brings out deep, rich flavors while keeping things healthy.
Slow Cooker Fish Chowder – Light & Diabetes-Friendly
Serves: 6
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Ingredients:
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups fish stock (or vegetable stock for a milder taste)
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
2 leeks (white parts only), thinly sliced
1 lb cod or halibut, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup 2% reduced-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
½ teaspoon ground mace (or substitute with a pinch of nutmeg)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adds depth and warmth)
Salt and white pepper, to taste
¼ cup thinly sliced green onions, for garnish
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for added freshness
Preparation:
1️⃣ Combine the base ingredients: In a slow cooker, add crushed tomatoes, fish stock, onions, carrots, celery, leeks, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir well, cover, and cook on high for 4-5 hours until the vegetables are tender.
2️⃣ Add the fish & milk: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, gently stir in the cubed fish, milk, and ground mace. Let it simmer until the fish is cooked through and flaky.
3️⃣ Season & garnish: Taste the chowder and season with salt and white pepper as needed.
4️⃣ Serve & enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls and sprinkle with green onions and fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Why This Chowder is Diabetes-Friendly
✔️ No heavy cream – A light yet creamy texture without excessive fat.
✔️ No refined flour or thickeners – Pure vegetables and fish make it naturally thick and hearty.
✔️ Rich in lean protein – Cod or halibut adds satisfying protein to keep blood sugar stable.
✔️ Loaded with fiber – The carrots, celery, and leeks help with digestion and slow carb absorption.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This light and creamy fish chowder is satisfying on its own, but here are a few delicious ways to serve it:
🥖 With a side of low-carb bread – Try almond flour or seed-based crackers for a crunchy contrast.
🥗 Paired with a crisp salad – A fresh arugula or spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
🍽 As part of a seafood feast – Serve alongside grilled shrimp or a simple roasted fish fillet.
More Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This light and creamy fish chowder is satisfying on its own, but adding the right finishing touches takes it to the next level!
🥖 Crispy Low-Carb Garlic Croutons – A little crunch goes a long way! Try these easy homemade croutons made from whole-grain or low-carb bread, tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then baked until golden. They add the perfect texture contrast without overpowering the chowder.
🥗 Paired with a Crisp Salad – A simple arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully.
🍽 As Part of a Seafood Feast – Serve alongside grilled shrimp or a roasted fish fillet for a complete seafood experience.
How to Make the Perfect Crunchy Topping
If you love a little texture in your chowder, these homemade garlic croutons are a game-changer. Lightly seasoned and baked to perfection, they add a delightful crispness without the heaviness of traditional bread.
🥖 Low-Carb Garlic Croutons Recipe
2 slices low-carb or whole-grain bread, cut into small cubes
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
¼ tsp sea salt
🔹 How to Make Them:
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, herbs, and salt.
3️⃣ Spread them on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, until crisp and golden brown.
4️⃣ Sprinkle over the chowder right before serving for an irresistible crunch!
✨ Pro Tip: For a cheesy crunch, swap croutons for crushed parmesan crisps or toasted pumpkin seeds.
Make It Your Own – Customization Tips
✔️ Swap the fish – Use salmon, haddock, or even shrimp for a different seafood twist.
✔️ Dairy-free? – Use unsweetened coconut milk for a creamy alternative.
✔️ Boost the herbs – Add fresh dill, oregano, or basil for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Final Thoughts – A Comforting Classic Made Healthier
This slow-cooker fish chowder proves that comfort food can be both delicious and diabetes-friendly. It’s an easy, fuss-free recipe that delivers a rich, satisfying flavor without the heavy carbs or unhealthy fats.
💬 Have you tried making chowder in a slow cooker? Let me know your favorite variations in the comments!
