Are you craving a heartwarming, creamy seafood dish that will transport you to the charming coastal towns of New England? Look no further than this homemade New England Clam Chowder recipe! Crafted with love and authentic ingredients, this chowder promises to become a favorite family dish that you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients (Serves 7-8 people)
To recreate this delectable chowder at home, you’ll need:
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced (approximately 4 ounces)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes, scrubbed and diced into 1/2-inch cubes (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups clam juice (from bottles or reserved from steaming fresh clams)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 (6.5-ounce) cans minced clams, drained (or 1 1/2 pounds fresh clams, steamed and chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
Timing
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
| 20 minutes | 45 minutes | 1 hour 5 minutes |
How to Make New England Clam Chowder Recipe: Step-by-step
Step 1- Cook the Bacon: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy and the fat has rendered, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon drippings in the pot.
Step 2- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and celery to the bacon drippings in the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to toast slightly and create a roux.
Step 4- Add the Liquids and Potatoes: Gradually whisk in the clam juice and chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the diced potatoes, bay leaf, dried thyme, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5- Finish the Chowder: Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Stir in the drained minced clams (or chopped fresh clams), heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Allow the chowder to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the clams are heated through and the flavors have melded. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
Step 6- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the piping hot New England Clam Chowder into bowls and garnish with reserved crispy bacon bits, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and oyster crackers or crusty bread on the side. Savor the rich, creamy broth brimming with tender clams, potatoes, and the unmistakable essence of the sea.
Tips for Making This Recipe Perfect
Use Fresh or High-Quality Canned Clams: While fresh clams are always a treat, high-quality canned minced clams can be a convenient and affordable alternative. Look for brands that use minimal preservatives and pack the clams in their natural juices.
Don’t Overcook the Clams: Clams can become tough and rubbery if overcooked. Add them towards the end of the cooking process and simmer gently to ensure they remain tender and succulent.
Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chowder, create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water or broth. Whisk the slurry into the simmering chowder and cook until it reaches your desired consistency.
Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of dry sherry or white wine to the chowder. Alternatively, you can substitute some of the chicken or vegetable broth with clam juice for an even more pronounced seafood essence.
Garnish Generously: Don’t forget to garnish your New England Clam Chowder with crispy bacon bits, fresh parsley, and oyster crackers or crusty bread. These toppings add texture and complement the rich flavors of the chowder beautifully.
Variations and Substitutions for Homemade Clam Chowder
Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a delicious vegan twist.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the chowder.
Seafood Medley: Add a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, or lobster, to create a decadent seafood chowder.
Smoky Flavor: For a smoky depth of flavor, substitute some of the bacon with smoked ham or turkey bacon, or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the chowder.
Serving and Storing Clam Chowder
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your homemade New England Clam Chowder piping hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits, fresh parsley, and oyster crackers or crusty bread on the side.
- For a heartier meal, pair the chowder with a fresh green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich.
- Offer a selection of hot sauces or chili flakes for those who prefer a little extra kick.
Storing and Reheating:
- Allow the chowder to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching or separating.
- For best results, add a splash of cream or broth to the chowder when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutritional Facts
Amount Per Servings:
- Calories: 420
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 980mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 18g
Conclusion
Indulge in the comforting embrace of a steaming bowl of homemade New England Clam Chowder. This beloved classic, brimming with tender clams, creamy potatoes, and smoky bacon, is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of New England. With its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, each spoonful transports you to the charming seaside towns where this chowder originated. So, gather your loved ones, break out the crusty bread, and savor the warmth and nostalgia of this cherished recipe.
FAQs
1- Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh clams are a delightful addition to this chowder. Simply steam or boil the fresh clams until they open, reserving the flavorful clam juice. Chop the clams and add them towards the end of the cooking process, along with the reserved clam juice.
2- Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chowder a day or two in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the chowder on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
3- Can I freeze the leftover chowder?
While freezing is possible, cream-based soups like this chowder may separate or become grainy in texture upon thawing. If you plan to freeze leftovers, it’s best to do so in smaller portions and consume them within 2-3 months for optimal quality. When reheating, stir frequently and consider adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the desired consistency.
4- What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option or need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a plant-based milk alternative like unsweetened almond or coconut milk. Keep in mind that the richness and creaminess of the chowder may be slightly reduced.
5- Can I use other types of potatoes?
While red potatoes are the traditional choice for this chowder, you can substitute them with Yukon Gold or russet potatoes. However, keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary slightly depending on the potato variety you use.
Remember, the key to a truly exceptional New England Clam Chowder lies in the quality of the ingredients and the care taken in each step of the preparation process. Embrace the flavors of the sea and the warmth of this cherished dish, and let it transport you to the heart of New England’s coastal charm.