The Creamy Salmon Stew Recipe That Even My Kids Love

When the weather starts getting chilly, there’s nothing like a warm, hearty stew to cozy up to. This creamy salmon stew is one of those comforting dishes that fills the kitchen with a savory aroma of deliciousness and then brings everyone to the table once it's done simmering. It’s rich, full of flavor, and incredibly easy to make - just one pot is all you need to make it. Not to mention, just a handful of steps are all you have to follow to whip it up.

Why I Love This Salmon Stew Recipe

This salmon stew recipe has a special place in my heart, thanks to my cousin Elena who shared it with me. She made it for a family gathering last winter, and I was hooked on the creamy, comforting flavors. It’s since become a family favorite, and now I’m excited to share it with you!

Candidly, it's one of the few ways I can get my kids to eat salmon. And I'm a big fan of that because salmon has a ton of healthy fat and protein in it - and it's sooo hard to get them to eat enough protein. All they want to do is eat snacks all day.

Anyway, I digress, let's talk more about what you'll need to make the stew.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this salmon stew recipe is that it uses simple kitchen staples. Most of which I usually have on hand at any given time.

Here's what you'll need to make it:

• 1 lb salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 1 small carrot, grated
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes
• 2 cups fish or chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make This Creamy Salmon Stew

As I mentioned, just a handful of steps are all you have to follow to make this stew.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, grated carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in the tomato paste and chili flakes, cooking for 1 minute to deepen the flavors.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the fish or chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Salmon and Cream

Gently stir in the cubed salmon and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the fish is tender and cooked through. Then, stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

My Expert Tips for Making the Perfect Salmon Stew

1. Use Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor, use fresh salmon fillets. You can also use frozen salmon, but make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before adding to the stew.
2. Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Add the salmon towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming tough. It only needs about 5 minutes to cook through.
3. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer for a few more minutes after adding the cream, or add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste.
4. Add Extra Veggies: For a heartier stew, feel free to add more vegetables like diced potatoes or zucchini.
5. Serve Immediately: This stew is best enjoyed fresh. I don't recommend simmering it for too long.

FAQs About Creamy Salmon Stew

Can I use canned salmon?

Yes, you can use canned salmon in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and remove any bones before adding it to the stew.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or half-and-half if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just note that it may change the flavor slightly.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the stew base ahead of time, but add the salmon and cream just before serving for the best texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.

What to serve with salmon stew?

Serve with crusty brown bread, a green salad, or fluffy rice for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This creamy salmon stew is the perfect comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and quick to whip up—ideal for busy nights or when you’re craving something comforting. I hope it becomes a family favorite in your home too!

Oh, and as always, if you give it a try, let me know how it goes for you in the comments below.

More Stew Recipes to Try Next

• Lemony shrimp and bean stew
• Chicken stew
• Mexican beef stew
• Cajun meatball stew