B'S New England Clam Chowder
B's New England Clam Chowder is a rich, creamy soup highlighting fresh clams, smoky bacon, and aromatic thyme. Perfect for comforting meals, it embodies classic American coastal flavors with tender potatoes and a velvety broth, making it ideal for cozy gatherings and seafood lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and open the clams, reserving the liquid.
- In a large pot, sauté the bacon over low heat until cooked through.
- Remove the bacon slices and reserve.
- Mince the clams and the onion.
- Saute the minced clams and onion in the bacon fat in the pot.
- Add the thyme to the mixture.
- Sprinkle the flour into the mixture and stir well.
- Add the clam juice, bay leaves, and diced potatoes.
- Crumble the reserved bacon and add it to the pot.
- Cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the milk, cream, and butter.
- Do not let the mixture boil after adding the dairy.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use fresh clams if available, and consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions. You can substitute potatoes with parsnips for a unique twist. If you prefer a thicker chowder, increase the flour or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. This chowder pairs beautifully with Old Settler Baked Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs well with crusty bread or biscuits, making it an excellent accompaniment to a meal featuring Savory Green Beans. A light salad can also complement this hearty dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, adding a little more milk or cream if it thickens too much. Avoid boiling to maintain the cream's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of B'S New England Clam Chowder contains roughly 810 calories, with 15g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (185% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (172% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (85% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 24g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 canned clams instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned clams for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the clam juice quantity accordingly. Canned clams will save time, but fresh clams provide a more vibrant flavor and texture. If using canned clams, add them towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or a blend of almond milk and cashew cream for a creamy texture. Be sure to adjust the seasonings as needed, as dairy alternatives can alter the flavor profile slightly.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce when you add the thyme. Chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes can also enhance the heat without overpowering the traditional chowder flavors.
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).