My mother and father live down the street from me, just a few houses away.

No, I’m not a teenager, but yes, I still do raid their fridge.

(You would too, my parents havegreatleftovers!)

salmon chowder in a bowl

Elise Bauer

Thankfully for mom and dad, the arrangement goes both ways.

The verdict the next day?Raves.

It’s rich, smoky, and comforting.

sautéing celery and leaks with bacon

Simply Recipes / Elise Bauer

It’s our left coast answer to New England’sclam chowder.

Heat on medium to medium high heat.

Cook until lightly browned and the fat mostly rendered out of the bacon, about 5 to 6 minutes.

celery, leeks and bacon cooking in a pot

Simply Recipes / Elise Bauer

Remove all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat.

(Do not put bacon fat in your sink drain, it will clog the pipes.)

Increase heat to bring to a simmer.

cooking potatoes for chowder

Elise Bauer

Then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the potatoes are cooked through.

Place salmon in a bowl, sprinkle with flour and black pepper.

fresh salmon in a bowl for chowder

Simply Recipes / Elise Bauer

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a non-stick skillet on medium high heat.

(The salmon doesn’t have to be cooked through, just lightly browned.)

Stir in corn if using.

browning salmon for chowder

Simply Recipes / Elise Bauer

Cook gently for 5 minutes then remove from heat.

Stir in the cream and lemon zest.

Add salt to taste.

fresh salmon chowder with bacon

Simply Recipes / Elise Bauer

Garnish with chives to serve.