Description
Clam chowder is a classic New England dish that combines tender clams, creamy potatoes, and savory bacon in a rich, flavorful broth. This Clam Chowder Recipe will walk you through making this comforting soup with detailed instructions and helpful tips.
Ingredients for Creamy Clam Chowder Recipe
Instructions for Creamy Clam Chowder Recipe
Cook the Bacon:
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In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
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Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
Sauté the Vegetables:
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Add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery to the pot.
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Sauté until the onions are translucent and the celery is softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Potatoes and Broth:
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Stir in the diced potatoes, clam juice, chicken broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, and black pepper.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
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Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Prepare the Clams:
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If using fresh clams, steam them until they open, then chop the meat and set aside.
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If using canned clams, drain and chop them.
Thicken the Chowder:
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In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
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Gradually whisk in the half-and-half until smooth.
Combine and Finish:
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Add the roux to the pot with the vegetables and broth, stirring to combine.
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Stir in the clams and cooked bacon.
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Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the chowder is thick and creamy.
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Season with salt to taste.
Rest and Serve:
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Remove the bay leaf and let the chowder rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Potassium 600mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 12g24%
- Vitamin A 500 IU
- Vitamin C 15 mg
- Calcium 150 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Creamy Clam Chowder Recipe Variation Options:
- Manhattan Clam Chowder: Replace the cream base with a tomato base, and add bell peppers and carrots.
- Spicy Clam Chowder: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Seafood Chowder: Include shrimp, scallops, or crab meat along with the clams for a seafood medley.
Creamy Clam Chowder Recipe Cooking Tips:
- Bacon Fat: Cooking the vegetables in bacon fat adds extra flavor to the chowder.
- Roux: Make sure to cook the roux long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Clams: Fresh clams add the best flavor, but canned clams are a convenient alternative.
Creamy Clam Chowder Recipe Serving Suggestions:
- With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad.
- Wine: Enjoy with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, canned clams are convenient and work well in this recipe.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Yes, clam chowder can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
For a lighter version, omit the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the vegetables.
Substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best in this recipe.
Increase the amount of roux or reduce the broth for a thicker consistency.
Yes, adding corn kernels is a delicious variation.
Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling.
The bay leaf adds subtle flavor, but the chowder will still be delicious without it.
