Clam Chowder
Clam chowder is a creamy and comforting soup that highlights the briny flavor of clams, complemented by the smoky richness of bacon and the heartiness of potatoes. Perfect for chilly days, it's a delightful dish suited for seafood lovers and anyone seeking a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice bacon and onion. Sauté in a soup pot.
- Add diced potatoes, minced clams, reserved clam juice, half and half, water, and butter.
- Heat the mixture; do not boil.
- May be thickened, if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using smoked bacon instead of regular bacon. If you're out of clam juice, you can substitute with seafood stock or vegetable broth. To cut down on calories, consider using low-fat half and half or a blend of milk and cream. If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding them to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve clam chowder with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or roasted Red Cabbage for added freshness. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Double Baked Potatoes or a classic American recipe like Shepherd'S Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover clam chowder 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 separation. You can also add a splash of clam juice or water if it thickens too much while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Chowder contains roughly 1627 calories, with 16g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1807mg per serving (79% 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 if you prefer. Just make sure to clean them thoroughly and steam them until they open, then chop and add them to the chowder. Reserve the clam juice from steaming for added flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
This clam chowder can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that the bacon is gluten-free and using a gluten-free broth. Additionally, you can thicken the chowder with cornstarch instead of flour if desired.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make clam chowder dairy-free, substitute half and half with a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Just be aware that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
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).