Cream Of Clam Soup
A creamy, savory clam soup with delicate flavors of minced clams and a hint of paprika, perfect for a comforting appetizer or light meal for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients until smooth.
- Pour into a saucepan and heat at low temperature.
- Do not boil or the soup will curdle.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of sherry or a dash of Worcestershire sauce. If you're out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter. To achieve a smoother texture, use an immersion blender after heating. Be cautious with the heat; a gentle simmer is key to prevent curdling. Serving with crusty bread enhances the overall experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cream of clam soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad, such as Mama'S Fruit Salad, to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light seafood dish or a simple green salad. A glass of white wine can also complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling. If the soup thickens too much, add a little milk or cream to restore its consistency. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Of Clam Soup contains roughly 373 calories, with 4g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 643mg per serving (28% 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 ones?
Yes, you can use fresh clams if you prefer. Make sure to steam them open and reserve the juice before adding them to the soup. Fresh clams will provide a more robust flavor, but ensure they're thoroughly cleaned and cooked to avoid any food safety issues.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This cream of clam soup is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. However, always check your canned clam juice and any additional seasonings to ensure they are gluten-free. You can enhance the flavor without compromising on dietary needs.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup a day ahead. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to reheat it gently and serve immediately to maintain the creaminess. If possible, add fresh herbs just before serving for optimal flavor.
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).