Helen'S Clam Chowder
Helen's Clam Chowder delivers a hearty, smoky flavor with bacon, tender clams, and a hint of spice, perfect for comforting gatherings and seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon and break into small pieces.
- Cook the onion in a small amount of bacon fat until browned.
- Add water, tomatoes, and finely cut celery to the pot.
- Simmer a while with Tabasco sauce and Worcestershire.
- Add the minced clams and potatoes, then simmer until potatoes are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can add a couple of diced potatoes to the pot along with the clams. For those who want a little more heat, feel free to increase the Tabasco sauce. Using fresh clams instead of canned can elevate the dish, but ensure they're properly cleaned.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Helen's Clam Chowder with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal. A light side salad, such as a Bacon-Swiss Tossed Salad, complements the richness of the chowder perfectly. For a heartier option, pair it with Grilled Bacon Wrapped Wieners to create a fulfilling lunch or dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Helen'S Clam Chowder contains roughly 764 calories, with 15g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), potassium (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 639mg per serving (28% 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 them properly and steam them until they open before adding them to the chowder. This will give your chowder an even fresher taste.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To make Helen's Clam Chowder gluten-free, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the chowder instead of flour. This will maintain the creamy texture without gluten.
What can I do if my chowder is too salty?
If your chowder turns out too salty, you can add a peeled and quartered potato while it simmers. The potato will absorb some of the excess salt. Alternatively, adding more water or broth can help dilute the saltiness.
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).