Savor the Flavor: Easy New England Clam ChowderRecipe
Indulge in the comforting flavors of the East Coast with our Easy New England Clam Chowder recipe. This hearty and satisfying soup is a classic favorite, perfect for warming you up on chilly days or satisfying your craving for a taste of coastal cuisine. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch of this delicious chowder in no time. Join us as we explore the steps to creating a bowl of creamy goodness that will transport you straight to the shores of New England.
Ingredients:
- 4 thick slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2-3 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 lb waxy potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 (6.5 oz each) cans chopped clams, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) bottle clam juice
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, minced, for serving (optional)
- Oyster crackers, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Saute the Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion, diced celery, and minced garlic to the pot with the bacon drippings. Saute until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Make the Roux:
- Melt the unsalted butter in the pot with the cooked vegetables. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and vegetables, stirring to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes:
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth or stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the cubed potatoes and dried thyme to the pot.
5. Simmer:
- Bring the chowder to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Add Clams and Cream:
- Stir in the chopped clams (with their juices) and the bottle of clam juice. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
7. Season and Serve:
- Season the chowder with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Allow the chowder to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat through.
- Ladle the clam chowder into bowls and garnish with minced fresh parsley and crispy bacon pieces. Serve with oyster crackers on the side, if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Thickening the Chowder: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon or use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
- Seafood Variation: Add additional seafood such as shrimp, scallops, or crab meat for a seafood medley chowder.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of clam chowder.
- Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the chowder with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh clams instead of canned clams? A: Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh clams, steam them until they open, then chop the clam meat and add it to the chowder. Reserve the clam cooking liquid to use as clam juice.
Q: Can I make this chowder ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the chowder ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I freeze clam chowder? A: While it’s possible to freeze clam chowder, the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? A: Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version of clam chowder, but keep in mind that it may not be as rich and creamy as when using heavy cream.
Q: What type of potatoes should I use for clam chowder? A: Waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes are preferred for clam chowder as they hold their shape well when cooked.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following substitutions:
- Potatoes Substitute: Replace the waxy potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips for a lower-carb option.
- Flour Substitute: Use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or glucomannan instead of flour to thicken the chowder.
- Dairy Substitute: Substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version of clam chowder.
In conclusion, Easy New England Clam Chowder is a comforting and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, savory bacon, and tender potatoes, each spoonful is a taste of coastal bliss. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or a comforting snack, this chowder is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavors of New England with this delicious homemade clam chowder!
