Florida Clam Chowder

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A comforting Florida clam chowder featuring tender clams, savory onions, and potatoes, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a warm, hearty meal with simple, fresh flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 onions (medium size)
  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • 2 large Irish potatoes
  • 1 qt. hot water
  • 6 large clams
  • salt

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice the onions.
  2. Fry the onions in butter until translucent.
  3. Add hot water to the ground potatoes and bring to a boil.
  4. Cook until the potatoes are soft.
  5. Add the clams to the soup and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Simmer for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when frying the onions. If you can't find fresh clams, canned clams can be a suitable substitute. To enhance the chowder's texture, try using Yukon Gold potatoes as they are creamy and buttery. For a heartier dish, add corn or diced bell peppers, which can complement the seafood flavors well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad, making it a perfect starter or main dish. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Shrimp Floridian or a light Salad For A Luncheon.

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 stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Florida Clam Chowder contains roughly 1488 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 157g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 670mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).

1488 kcal 74% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.1g 4% DV
Total Fat 157.2g 100% DV
Carbs 16.9g 6% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 2.6g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 669.6mg 29% DV
Potassium 61.6mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 450mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 0.8mg 1% DV
Calcium 16.6mg 1% DV
Iron 0.6mg 4% DV
Diet fit Low-carb
Contains Milk Shellfish

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 frozen clams for this recipe?

Yes, frozen clams are a great alternative if fresh ones are unavailable. Just be sure to thaw them before adding to the chowder. Cooking time may slightly vary, so keep an eye on them to ensure they are heated through.

How can I make this chowder thicker?

To thicken your chowder, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork or use an immersion blender for a creamier texture. Alternatively, adding a roux made from flour and butter can also help achieve a thicker consistency.

What can I serve with clam chowder?

Clam chowder is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a garden salad or crusty garlic bread. You might also enjoy it alongside dishes from American recipes, such as Just Good Gumbo, for a delightful seafood-themed meal.

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).

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