Grandpa Bennett'S Baha Chowder
Grandpa Bennett's Baha Chowder is a hearty, comforting seafood soup featuring tender clams, smoky bacon, and creamy milk, enriched with potatoes, onions, and celery. Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy weekend meal, its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a favorite among seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; remove bacon and set aside.
- Fry chopped onion in bacon drippings until brown.
- Add diced celery and cubed potatoes to the onion and cook for a few minutes.
- Cover with water and add crumpled bacon.
- Cook the mixture until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add the large clams to the pot.
- Cook for an additional 6 to 7 minutes until clams are heated through.
- Turn off the heat and add milk all at once.
- Return to heat and heat through without boiling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after frying the onion. If clams are unavailable, use canned clams or substitute with shrimp for a different twist. Make sure to rinse the clams thoroughly to remove any sand. For a slightly thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding the milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a delightful texture contrast. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a nice touch of color. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad, such as a Day-Ahead Salad, for a complete meal. For a heartier option, try serving it alongside a Pork Chop Dinner Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chowder should be cooled to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to prevent the milk from curdling. Avoid boiling to maintain the chowder's creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandpa Bennett'S Baha Chowder contains roughly 378 calories, with 9g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1549mg per serving (67% 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 frozen clams for this chowder?
Yes, frozen clams can be used, but it's best to thaw them before adding to the chowder. This ensures even cooking and a better texture. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into the recipe.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the bacon flavor. For a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or pancetta can provide a similar taste without the added fat of traditional bacon.
How do I know when the clams are cooked?
Clams are cooked when they open up during the cooking process. If any clams remain closed after cooking, it's best to discard them. This ensures that you're only consuming fresh and safe clams.
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).