🥣 Creamy New England Clam Chowder Recipe – Cozy & Classic
Make the best New England clam chowder with tender clams, creamy potatoes, and crispy bacon. A hearty, cozy soup perfect for chilly nights or seafood lovers!
📌 Why You’ll Love This Clam Chowder Recipe
This rich and creamy clam chowder is loaded with chopped clams, diced potatoes, and smoky bacon—everything you crave in a classic New England soup. Whether you're serving it in a bread bowl or with oyster crackers, it’s a warm and satisfying favorite.
🛒 Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
- 1 cup clam juice (from canned clams or bottled)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams, drained (juice reserved)
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook Bacon & Veggies
- In a large pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter to the bacon fat. Sauté onions and celery for 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Make the Base
- Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in clam juice and chicken broth while whisking.
- Add diced potatoes and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until tender.
3. Add Clams & Cream
- Stir in the milk, heavy cream, and chopped clams.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional thyme. Simmer on low for 5–10 minutes—do not boil.
4. Serve
- Top with crispy bacon and chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
🧠 FAQs
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes! Steam 2 lbs of fresh clams and reserve the juice. Chop the meat and add it in place of canned clams.
How do I thicken my clam chowder?
Flour and starchy potatoes naturally thicken it. For thicker chowder, simmer longer or mash a few potatoes.
How long does clam chowder last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
📝 Tips & Variations
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the roux.
- Add depth: A splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce enhances flavor.
- Bread bowl upgrade: Serve in a hollowed-out sourdough roll for an extra-cozy meal.
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