Clam Chowder Recipe
Warm, creamy, and packed with the rich flavors of clams and hearty vegetables, clam chowder is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold day or craving a taste of the coast, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Follow along to create a perfect bowl of clam chowder at home.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup chicken or clam broth
- 2 cups heavy cream or whole milk
For the Clams
- 2 cups fresh clams, chopped (or one 10-ounce can of chopped clams, drained)
- 1/2 cup reserved clam juice (if using fresh clams)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Oyster crackers or crusty bread
Pro Tip: For a smoky flavor, substitute half the bacon with smoked sausage or pancetta.
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Pro Tip: Save some cooked bacon for garnishing—it adds a satisfying crunch to your finished soup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add butter to the bacon fat in the pot. Stir in the onion and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Soup Base
Add the cubed potatoes and chicken or clam broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 10-15 minutes).
Important: Make sure the potatoes are evenly cubed to cook at the same rate.
4. Add Clams and Cream
Stir in the chopped clams, reserved clam juice, and heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to boil the soup after adding cream, as it may curdle.
5. Season and Serve
Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon, parsley, and crackers or bread.
Variations
- New England Style: Keep it creamy by following the original recipe.
- Manhattan Style: Skip the cream and add a can of diced tomatoes for a tomato-based version.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Clam Chowder
- Fresh Clams: If using fresh clams, scrub them well and steam them until they open. Use the steaming liquid as your clam juice.
- Thickening the Soup: For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot or add a tablespoon of flour to the sautéed vegetables before adding the broth.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
Enjoy your homemade clam chowder with your favorite toppings and a slice of crusty bread! This hearty recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you need a bowl of comfort.
