Grandma Eichler'S Clam Chowder
A creamy, hearty clam chowder with tender scallops and potatoes, enriched with herbs and savory clams, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and thyme in the juice from the clams for about 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Combine flour and milk; add to the vegetable mixture and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Add butter and stir until melted.
- Stir in the clams and scallops.
- Continue cooking over low heat until the clams are heated through and scallops turn white, being careful not to boil or overcook the scallops.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the scallops with shrimp for a different seafood flavor. If you prefer a thicker chowder, increase the flour slightly. Fresh thyme can enhance the taste, but dried thyme works well too. Be cautious not to overcook the seafood to maintain its tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma Eichler's Clam Chowder with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A refreshing side like Boyd's Pasta Salad complements the richness of the chowder well. For a garnish, sprinkle with fresh parsley or serve with oyster crackers for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover clam chowder can be stored 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. Avoid boiling as it can curdle the milk. Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy and seafood textures.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Eichler'S Clam Chowder contains roughly 2405 calories, with 35g protein, 316g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (141% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), and calcium (84% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1937mg per serving (84% 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, but be sure to clean them thoroughly and steam them until they open before adding to the chowder. This will enhance the flavor and freshness of the dish.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Adjust the thickening agent as needed for desired consistency.
Can I add vegetables to this chowder?
Certainly! Feel free to add chopped celery or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before adding the flour and milk mixture.
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).