Clam Chowder(Makes 5 Cups)
Clam chowder is a creamy, comforting soup featuring tender clams, potatoes, celery, and onions, with a rich milk base. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, it offers a delightful blend of seafood and savory flavors that appeal to seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine diced potatoes, chopped celery, chopped onion, and water in a pot.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Combine evaporated skim milk, skim milk, drained clams, lo-cal margarine, cornstarch, and salt in a separate bowl and stir together.
- Add the milk mixture to the cooked vegetables.
- Cook and stir for 10 minutes or until the mixture is thick and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of skim milk. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can increase the cornstarch slightly or use instant potato flakes. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for extra flavor. For a richer taste, you can incorporate a splash of white wine or serve it with a dollop of sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or croutons for added texture. It pairs beautifully with Crab Toast or a simple green salad for a light meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Barbecued Butter Beans for a comforting seafood dinner.
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 low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Chowder(Makes 5 Cups) contains roughly 620 calories, with 8g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 573mg per serving (25% 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 ensure they are properly cleaned and cooked before adding them to the chowder. Fresh clams will give the chowder a more vibrant flavor, but remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make clam chowder gluten-free, simply substitute the cornstarch with a gluten-free thickener like arrowroot or a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix. Ensure that any additional ingredients, like stock or broth, are labeled gluten-free.
What can I do if my chowder is too salty?
If your chowder turns out too salty, you can balance the flavor by adding diced potatoes or a splash of cream to absorb some of the saltiness. You can also dilute it with a bit of unsalted broth or water, but be mindful of the overall consistency.
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).