Creamy Clam Chowder

Creamy clam chowder is the ultimate comfort food, a bowl of creamy, hearty goodness that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table. This New England-style chowder is filled with tender clams, smoky bacon, soft potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth that will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a special starter for a dinner party, clam chowder is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just enjoy a good bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, this chowder is as satisfying as it is delicious.
• Seafood Delight: Tender clams bring a fresh, briny taste of the ocean to your bowl.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a foolproof recipe.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a main dish, appetizer, or addition to a cozy family dinner.
• Customizable: Adjust the thickness, add vegetables, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Chowder:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups clam juice (from canned clams or bottled)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams, drained (reserve juice)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream or half-and-half
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Crumbled bacon
• Oyster crackers or crusty bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Bacon:

1. Heat a Pot: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Sauté the Vegetables:

2. Add Aromatics: Add the onion and celery to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.

Add the Potatoes and Broth:

3. Combine Liquids: Pour in the reserved clam juice and chicken broth. Add the diced potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Make the Roux:

4. Prepare the Thickener: In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbling.

Thicken the Chowder:

5. Combine: Slowly ladle some of the hot broth from the chowder into the roux, whisking to combine. Gradually add the roux mixture back into the pot, stirring well. Simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken.

Add the Clams and Cream:

6. Incorporate the Clams: Stir in the chopped clams, heavy cream, and reserved bacon. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Do not boil, as this can cause the cream to curdle.

Final Seasoning and Serve:

7. Season to Taste: Remove the bay leaf and season the chowder with salt and pepper. Adjust consistency by adding more broth or cream if needed.
8. Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, crumbled bacon, or oyster crackers. Enjoy warm with a side of crusty bread.

Ingredient Background

• Clams: Chopped clams bring a sweet, briny flavor. Fresh clams can be used, but canned clams are a convenient alternative.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory element that enhances the chowder’s depth. Turkey bacon can be substituted for a lighter option.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup. Yukon Golds are another excellent choice.
• Clam Juice: The base of the soup’s flavor, clam juice provides a fresh, oceanic taste.
• Heavy Cream: Makes the chowder rich and creamy, but half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.

Technique Tips

• Cook Bacon First: Cooking bacon first renders fat for sautéing vegetables and adds extra flavor to the chowder.
• Don’t Overcook Clams: Add clams at the end to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
• Keep it Creamy: Simmer gently after adding the cream; boiling can cause the soup to separate.
• Adjust Thickness: For thicker chowder, mash a few potatoes or add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Sourdough Bowl: Serve the chowder in a hollowed-out sourdough loaf for a rustic touch.
• Mini Cups: Serve in small cups or shot glasses for an elegant appetizer.
• Layered Platter: Serve alongside grilled seafood and roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Clams: If using fresh clams, steam them until they open, remove the meat, and reserve the steaming liquid as part of the broth.
• Balance the Flavors: Adjust salt carefully; the bacon and clam juice are already salty.
• Texture Control: Blend part of the soup for a creamier consistency, leaving some chunks for texture.

Recipe Variations

• Manhattan-Style Chowder: Swap the cream for diced tomatoes and tomato paste for a tangy, broth-based version.
• Spicy Chowder: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Vegetable Medley: Include corn, carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour to thicken the soup instead of all-purpose flour.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze Without Cream: Freeze the chowder before adding the cream, as dairy can separate when frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator and add the cream during reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent curdling.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even heating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Lighten the Base: Use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream instead of heavy cream.
• Turkey Bacon: Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon for less fat.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate spinach, kale, or cauliflower for extra nutrients.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and rinse canned clams to reduce salt.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Casual Gatherings: Serve with warm rolls or biscuits for a cozy meal.
• Holiday Dinners: Pair with a crisp green salad and white wine for an elegant first course.
• Seafood Night: Complement with grilled shrimp, crab cakes, or oysters for a seafood feast.

Special Equipment

• Dutch Oven or Heavy Pot: Ensures even heat distribution for simmering the chowder.
• Slotted Spoon: Useful for removing bacon or clams during cooking.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the chowder neatly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh clams?
Yes, steam fresh clams, remove the meat, and use the steaming liquid in the broth.

2. Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent the cream from curdling.

4. Can I freeze clam chowder?
It’s best to freeze the base without the cream and add the cream during reheating.

5. What can I serve with clam chowder?
Pair with crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a side salad.

6. How do I make it thicker?
Mash some of the potatoes or add an extra tablespoon of roux.

7. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, but you’ll need additional butter or oil to sauté the vegetables.

8. How long does it keep in the fridge?
Stored properly, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Creamy clam chowder is a timeless dish that combines the best of comforting textures and rich, briny flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or serving it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers a bowlful of satisfaction every time. Customize it to your preferences, pair it with your favorite sides, and savor the taste of this classic chowder. Try it today, and enjoy the hearty, creamy goodness!

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