Clam Chowder (Or New England Chowda!)
A hearty and creamy clam chowder with savory sausage, tender potatoes, and tender clams, perfect for comfort food lovers and seafood enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté sausage until thoroughly cooked.
- Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of butter and sauté onions until translucent.
- Add clam juice, seasoning, and chopped potatoes; cook for 5 to 6 minutes.
- Cover potatoes with water and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Add half and half, evaporated milk, and drained clams; heat through without boiling.
- Optional: Thicken the chowder with a flour and water mixture if desired.
- Add a few drops of Tabasco sauce to enhance flavor. Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using salt pork instead of sausage. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. To enhance the chowder's flavor, adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill can be a delightful twist. If you want a thicker chowder, stir in a slurry of flour and water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for added color. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Jalapeno Beans for a spicy kick or a refreshing Purple Potato Salad for a vibrant contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover clam chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling, as this can curdle the milk. For best results, add a splash of water or additional clam juice if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Chowder (Or New England Chowda!) contains roughly 275 calories, with 8g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (186% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1015mg per serving (44% 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! Make sure to steam them until they open, then chop and add them to the chowder. Use the cooking liquid as part of the clam juice, which will enhance the overall flavor. Just ensure to clean them thoroughly before cooking.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To make the chowder gluten-free, simply omit the flour for thickening or substitute it with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. You can create a slurry with cornstarch and cold water, adding it towards the end of cooking to achieve your desired thickness without compromising flavor.
Can I substitute the half and half?
Yes, if you want a lighter version, you can use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. However, be aware that these substitutes might alter the creaminess and flavor of the chowder slightly. Adjust seasoning as necessary to enhance the 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).