Brattens Boston Clam Chowder
Creamy Boston clam chowder with tender potatoes, onions, and celery, enriched with minced clams and half and half, ideal for comforting meals and seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice from the cans of minced clams.
- Pour the clam juice over the diced vegetables.
- Add enough water to cover the vegetables and simmer over medium heat until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using heavy cream instead of half and half or milk. You can also add some diced bacon for a smoky flavor. If you prefer a thicker consistency, whisk in additional flour gradually after the vegetables are tender. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor, and substituting fresh clams for canned can elevate the dish, making it closer to traditional seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with chopped parsley or croutons for added texture. It pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. For an elegant touch, consider serving alongside a seafood dish like Shrimp And Scallop Scampi. This chowder is perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling, stirring occasionally. You can also add a splash of milk or half and half to restore creaminess while reheating. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brattens Boston Clam Chowder contains roughly 1841 calories, with 32g protein, 307g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (110% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), and calcium (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1467mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh clams! Just make sure to clean them thoroughly and add them to the pot once the vegetables are tender. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the clams are cooked through and have opened fully before serving.
What can I do if my chowder is too thick?
If your chowder turns out too thick, simply add more milk or half and half, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to heat through without boiling to maintain a creamy texture.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add some heat to your chowder, consider stirring in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños during cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side, allowing guests to adjust the spice level to their liking.
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).