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Creamy Clam Chowder Recipe
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Recipe Category: , ,
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Estimated Cost: AU$  18
Calories: 350 kcal
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
  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups clam juice
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 2 cups chopped clams (fresh or canned)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions for Creamy Clam Chowder Recipe
    Cook the Bacon:
  1. 1
    In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
  2. 2
    Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
    3. Sauté the Vegetables:
  3. 3
    Add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery to the pot.
  4. 4
    Sauté until the onions are translucent and the celery is softened, about 5 minutes.
    5. Add Potatoes and Broth:
  5. 5
    Stir in the diced potatoes, clam juice, chicken broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, and black pepper.
  6. 6
    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  7. 7
    Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
    8. Prepare the Clams:
  8. 8
    If using fresh clams, steam them until they open, then chop the meat and set aside.
  9. 9
    If using canned clams, drain and chop them.
    10. Thicken the Chowder:
  10. 10
    In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  11. 11
    Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  12. 12
    Gradually whisk in the half-and-half until smooth.
    13. Combine and Finish:
  13. 13
    Add the roux to the pot with the vegetables and broth, stirring to combine.
  14. 14
    Stir in the clams and cooked bacon.
  15. 15
    Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the chowder is thick and creamy.
  16. 16
    Season with salt to taste.
    17. Rest and Serve:
  17. 17
    Remove the bay leaf and let the chowder rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  18. 18
    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.
Keywords: Clam Chowder Recipe, homemade clam chowder, New England clam chowder, creamy clam chowder, easy clam chowder recipe, seafood chowder
Read it online: https://recipehub.com.au/recipe/creamy-clam-chowder-recipe/