Favorite Clam Chowder
A rich, creamy clam chowder with tender potatoes and crispy salt pork, perfect for comforting meals or special occasions, offering a savory blend of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook salt pork in a heavy saucepan over moderate heat until crisp and brown.
- Drain crisp pieces on paper.
- Cook chopped onion in the fat until tender.
- Add diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and the liquid drained from the clams.
- Add water if necessary, just to cover the potatoes; cook over low heat until potatoes are tender.
- Add minced clams. Stir in 2 cups of milk and light cream and set aside to ripen for 2 hours or longer.
- Reheat slowly.
- Stir flour and 2 tablespoons of milk together to form a smooth paste.
- Stir the flour paste into the chowder and cook slowly over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Garnish each serving with crisp salt pork pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of salt pork. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, a small amount of diced carrots can be included with the onions. To enhance the creaminess, you might substitute half and half for the light cream. Pairing this chowder with crusty bread or a fresh salad can elevate the meal, much like how Mushrooms Alex complements hearty dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with the crispy salt pork pieces for added texture. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty sourdough bread or a light green salad. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor, making it an inviting dish for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling the milk. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Clam Chowder contains roughly 470 calories, with 8g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1518mg per serving (66% 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 make sure to clean and steam them until they open, then chop and add them to the chowder. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly to ensure the clams are tender. Fresh clams will lend a more vibrant flavor to your chowder.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this clam chowder gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Mix the cornstarch with a little cold milk before adding it to avoid lumps. This will help thicken the chowder without compromising its delicious flavor.
What can I do if my chowder is too thick?
If your clam chowder turns out too thick, you can easily fix it by adding a little more milk or broth. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to reheat it gently to ensure the flavors meld together nicely while achieving the right 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).