Bratten'S Clam Chowder
A creamy, flavorful clam chowder with tender potatoes and vegetables, perfect for comfort food lovers and seafood enthusiasts seeking a rich, hearty soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice from the canned minced clams and pour it over the vegetables; add enough water to barely cover and simmer, covered, until potatoes are tender, approximately 20 minutes.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan; add the flour and blend well.
- Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, then add the half and half and cook, stirring, until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Add the undrained vegetables and clams back into the soup; heat through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and sugar to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of white wine while simmering the vegetables. If you want to reduce the calories, substitute half of the butter with olive oil. You can also swap out the minced clams for chopped shrimp for a different seafood flavor. Be sure not to overcook the potatoes to maintain their texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bratten's Clam Chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like a simple garden salad or grilled Alaskan King Salmon. For a complete seafood experience, consider offering a side of shrimp and cheese ball as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to separate. You can also add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bratten'S Clam Chowder contains roughly 1952 calories, with 32g protein, 257g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (303% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), and potassium (97% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 984mg per serving (43% 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 use fresh clams! Just make sure to clean and steam them first, then add them to the chowder during the final stages of cooking. This will enhance the flavor and freshness of the dish.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To make Bratten's Clam Chowder gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Mix it with a little water to create a slurry before adding it to the butter to avoid clumping.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley can also enhance the dish. Additionally, a sprinkle of smoked paprika can give the chowder a delightful smoky depth.
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).