Note from Mommypotamus: This dairy-free chowder recipe comes from Lauren at Empowered Sustenance. Thanks, Lauren!

The What’s That? Game

After a few months of experience, my dad is quickly excelling at a game we call “What’s That?”

This game usually begins when I’m pulling something out of the oven or stirring a bubbling pot on the stove. Dad peers curiously at the food-in-progress, and I can see him scrolling through his mental list of Weird Things My Daughter Often Eats. If he guesses the main ingredients of said meal, he wins. If he is forced to reluctantly ask “What’s that?” then I win.

A few weeks ago, he earned double brownie points when he guessed the main ingredients of my green pancakes. But I stumped him with this soup.

“Shrimp, that’s easy.” He said, as I sat down at the table with my bowl of steaming chowder.

“That doesn’t count!” I scolded him, “What is the soup part?” To give him a small hint, I stirred the chowder around and remarked on the smooth, velvety texture.

I could tell he was ready to give up when he gave a resigned sigh and said, “Well, it looks like a cream-based soup to me.” Then he finally asked, “Okay… what’s that?”

Creamy Shrimp Chowder… Without Cream

A few carefully selected veggies give luscious creaminess to this soup. Cauliflower and zucchini combine to provide a rich, smooth puree. A little bit of GAPS-friendly canned coconut milk ties the base together. Finally, a pinch of Old Bay (an obligatory seasoning in seafood soup) and Dijon mustard give a fresh zing. If you are cooking for kids, you might reduce these ingredients to accommodate sensitive palates.

Following GAPS means diligently checking with sources to make sure ingredients are free of undisclosed ingredients. I contacted Old Bay to make sure this seasoning is GAPS safe. I was told that the special spice blend contained mustard bran, but no grains, sugar, or starch.

Can You Beat My Dad at What’s That?

Are you good at the What’s That game? Can you guess the main ingredient in this GAPS dish? For the answer and a recipe link, scroll to the bottom of the post.

And now, the recipe!

Dairy Free Shrimp Chowder (GAPS)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 medium zucchini, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (here’s how to make your own)
• 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 Tbs. fat of choice: lard, coconut oil, or butter if dairy is okay
• 12 oz fully cooked shrimp 
• Salt and pepper, to taste

 Directions:

1. Place the cauliflower florets, zucchini, and broth in the slow cooker. Cook on high for about 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until the cauliflower is very tender. (You can also steam the veggies until tender instead of using a slow cooker and just add the broth in the next step).
2. Carefully pour the vegetables and liquid into a blender. Puree with the coconut milk, Old Bay, dijon, lemon juice, and fat. If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or coconut milk.
3. Chop the shrimp into small chunks. Place the shrimp and pureed soup base into the slow cooker or a pot on the stove and warm through. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Makes about 5-6 cups, and the recipe is easily doubled.

Answer to What’s That:

It’s a grain free cauliflower wrap! And it’s super yum.

About Lauren:

Ever since my colitis diagnosis five years ago, I constantly learn how diet, emotions, and lifestyle fit together as the key to healing chronic disease. Last fall I started college, but my plans changed when I was unable to manage my disease with medication. At the end of the semester, I signed up for online college courses, headed back home, and threw myself wholeheartedly into treating my colitis with nutrition, holistic living, and mind-body medicine.

Now, I use the SCD/GAPS Diet and a holistic lifestyle to cure my colitis. I started EmpoweredSustenance.com because I wanted to share recipes and support with others who may be experiencing similar health challenges. I hope you see you there soon! Eat well and heal!