Doris' Clam Chowder (Cape Cod)
Doris' Clam Chowder offers a creamy, comforting taste of Cape Cod with tender potatoes, savory clams, and rich dairy flavors, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine or butter in a deep saucepan.
- Add chopped onion and cook slowly until golden brown.
- Add canned baby clams in liquid and diced potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook until potatoes are tender.
- Remove from heat.
- Slowly add milk and heavy whipping cream.
- Mix corn starch with a little cold milk and add to the mixture to thicken.
- Return to heat and cook until heated through, but do not boil.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some diced celery or carrots when cooking the onions. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with additional milk or use a plant-based cream. For a twist, try adding some cooked bacon or pancetta for added depth. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you're using canned clams with added salt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture. For a full seafood experience, consider serving it alongside Bessie B'S Crab Dip or a simple green salad. This chowder also complements a glass of white wine, enhancing your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 occasionally to prevent separation. Avoid boiling, as this may change the texture of the cream. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Doris' Clam Chowder (Cape Cod) contains roughly 1576 calories, with 12g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1182mg per serving (51% 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 definitely use fresh clams! Just steam them open, reserve the broth, and add both the clams and broth to the chowder. Keep in mind that fresh clams may require a bit more cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
Is it possible to make this chowder gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the corn starch with a gluten-free thickener, such as arrowroot powder or a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the labels on your canned clams and any other packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
How can I make this clam chowder spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider including a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when cooking the onions. You can also serve it with a dash of hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
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).