Harold'S Monday Night Clam Chowder
A hearty clam chowder packed with smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and fresh vegetables, perfect for comforting gatherings and seafood lovers seeking rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry chopped bacon until crispy and remove from pan.
- Sauté chopped celery, onion, bell pepper, and carrots in the bacon renderings until tender.
- Add chopped potatoes, Italian seasoning, stewed tomatoes, tomato juice, whole clams with juice, and cooked bacon to the pot.
- Simmer on low heat for at least 2 hours to develop flavors.
- Add steak sauce or milk before serving if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your clam chowder, consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika. If fresh clams are available, use them instead of canned for a fresher taste. For a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika and use vegetable broth instead of clam juice. This recipe can also be a wonderful base for variations, such as adding corn or using different types of potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty clam chowder with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Yummy Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika. Consider serving it alongside some oyster crackers for added texture and crunch. This dish is also excellent for gatherings and will satisfy a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover clam chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harold'S Monday Night Clam Chowder contains roughly 1696 calories, with 32g protein, 287g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (108% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1610mg per serving (70% 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 make this clam chowder in advance?
Yes, this clam chowder can be made a day ahead. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving. However, if using fresh clams, it's best to add them just before serving to maintain their texture.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you prefer a lighter version or need a vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor. You might also use turkey bacon for a healthier alternative while still enjoying some of the bacon flavor.
How can I thicken the chowder?
If you find your chowder too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry and then stirring it into the simmering chowder. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes in the chowder to naturally thicken it while maintaining a chunky 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).