Sheepshead Chowder
Sheepshead Chowder is a rich, creamy seafood soup originating from the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern United States, particularly popular in coastal communities. It features the firm, white-fleshed sheepshead fish as the star ingredient, simmered with potatoes, onions, celery, and often salt pork or bacon in a milk or cream base. The dish is a hearty, comforting staple that highlights local, sustainable fish.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This chowder is a balanced, high-protein dish with a moderate amount of fat from the dairy and pork components, and carbohydrates primarily from the potatoes. It is an excellent source of lean protein, selenium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, with a typical serving containing roughly 350-450 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Fat | 19 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Selenium | 42 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 320 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 4.5 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6 mg |
| Potassium | 480 mg |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, sheepshead is nicknamed the 'convict fish' due to its distinctive black vertical stripes, and using it in chowder is a sustainable choice, as it's often an abundant bycatch in coastal fisheries. Nutritionally, the combination of high-quality fish protein and nutrient-dense potatoes makes it a satisfying, complete meal in a bowl.
