Bill'S Clam Chowder(French)

Prep: 30 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: French

A hearty and flavorful clam chowder with fresh quahogs and smoky salt pork, perfect for comforting gatherings and seafood lovers seeking a rich, savory soup experience.

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Ingredients

  • 1 salt pork (1 x 3-inch piece)
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 10 to 12 large quahogs
  • 5 large diced potatoes
  • salt

Instructions

  1. Dice the salt pork and sauté until browned, then add the diced onion and set aside.
  2. Scrub the quahogs thoroughly. Place them in a large soup pot, add water to cover by 1 inch, and cover.
  3. Bring to a rapid boil until the quahogs open.
  4. Allow to cool, then remove the meat from the shells and cut it up, setting aside covered.
  5. Strain the broth and add about 5 large diced potatoes.
  6. Add enough water to cover all ingredients by 1 inch and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
  7. Add the chopped quahog meat to the pot along with the sautéed pork and onion.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. For a richer flavor, let the chowder sit overnight before serving. Milk or tomato may be added if desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For added depth, consider using smoked bacon instead of salt pork for a different flavor profile. If quahogs are unavailable, large clams or even mussels can work as substitutes. When sautéing the pork, ensure it gets crispy for better texture in the chowder. Adjust salt based on the saltiness of your pork.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad. For an extra touch, consider serving alongside a slice of Big Boy Loaf to soak up the delicious broth.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain the texture of the potatoes and seafood.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bill'S Clam Chowder(French) contains roughly 200 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 740mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).

200 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.4g 5% DV
Total Fat 14.4g 18% DV
Carbs 15.6g 6% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 2.1g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 739.6mg 32% DV
Potassium 108.2mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 8.6mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 1.4mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 13.8mg 1% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make clam chowder ahead of time?

Yes, clam chowder tastes even better when made ahead. Allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to reheat gently to preserve the ingredients' textures.

What can I serve with clam chowder?

Clam chowder is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad or homemade cornbread. For a hearty meal, pair it with classic Pork Cutlets Viennese Style. A glass of white wine can also complement the flavors nicely.

How do I know when the quahogs are cooked properly?

Quahogs are done when their shells open during cooking. Discard any that remain closed after boiling, as they are not safe to eat. Cooked quahogs will also have a firm texture, indicating they are ready to be added to your chowder.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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