Homemade Clam Chowder
A hearty, creamy clam chowder with tender vegetables and savory clams, perfect for warming up winter days and satisfying seafood cravings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the water, chopped onions, chopped celery, shredded carrots, and small potato quarters in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the chopped clams along with their juice to the vegetable mixture.
- Heat the milk to a boil separately.
- Gradually add the hot milk to the clam mixture, stirring constantly.
- Heat the cooking oil in a separate pan and mix with the flour to form a roux.
- Slowly add the roux to the clam mixture, stirring well.
- Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a low simmer.
- Simmer the chowder for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring constantly until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end. You can substitute the clams with canned tuna for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a thicker chowder, increase the roux quantity. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor. For a twist, try adding a hint of smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. Consider serving it alongside a light Avocado Crab Or Shrimp Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, complement it with a side of Baked Lobster And Shrimp.
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 stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Clam Chowder contains roughly 252 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (77% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 absolutely use fresh clams! Just steam them until they open, then chop and add them along with their juice to the chowder. Be sure to discard any unopened clams for safety.
Is it possible to make this chowder gluten-free?
Certainly! To make a gluten-free clam chowder, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Adjust the roux preparation to ensure it thickens properly, and enjoy your delicious chowder.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, omit the clams and their juice, using vegetable broth instead of water. You can add more vegetables like mushrooms or corn for added flavor and texture. This way, you'll have a hearty and satisfying vegetable chowder.
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).