Cindi'S Clam Chowder
Creamy, hearty clam chowder with smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting meals and seafood lovers seeking rich, flavorful soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and stir bacon and onion until bacon is crisp.
- Add enough water to clam juice to make 1 cup.
- Stir in clams, clam liquid, potatoes, celery, parsley flakes, thyme, and salt into the bacon and onion mixture.
- Heat to boiling.
- Cover and reduce heat to simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in milk; heat through, but do not boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon. You can also substitute half-and-half for milk to make the chowder creamier. If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding the milk. Fresh clams can be used in place of canned, but ensure they are cleaned and cooked thoroughly. This chowder pairs beautifully with a side of BLT Toss Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It goes well with crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light salad, like BLT Toss Salad, or roasted vegetables. This chowder is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a comforting lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 prevent the milk from curdling. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk or clam juice to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cindi'S Clam Chowder contains roughly 505 calories, with 12g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2545mg per serving (111% 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 instead of canned. Just ensure they are cleaned and cooked properly. Steam the clams until they open, then add them to the chowder along with their juices for a fresher taste.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To make this chowder gluten-free, ensure that the bacon and any broth used are certified gluten-free. You can thicken the chowder with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the chowder. You could also incorporate sautéed garlic or leeks along with the onion for additional 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).