Leeky Clam Chowder
A hearty and flavorful clam chowder with leeks, potatoes, and bacon, perfect for cozy meals and seafood lovers seeking a comforting, creamy soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown bacon in a large stock pot.
- Wash the leeks well.
- Chop the lower part of the leeks and add to the bacon.
- Saute about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add chopped clams in juice and parsley.
- Add about 1 pint hot water and heat to boiling.
- Add diced potatoes and simmer until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the leeks. If leeks are unavailable, you can substitute with green onions or shallots. Be sure to wash the leeks thoroughly to remove any grit. For a creamier chowder, you might stir in a bit of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider accompanying it with a slice of Country Ham 'N Red-Eye Gravy for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the clams.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leeky Clam Chowder contains roughly 997 calories, with 56g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (221% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (164% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1563mg per serving (68% 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 steam them until they're open, then chop and add them along with their juice. This will enhance the chowder's flavor, but ensure the clams are cleaned properly before cooking.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To make this chowder gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You can also thicken the chowder by pureeing a portion of the potatoes and returning it to the pot.
What can I do if the chowder is too thick?
If the chowder turns out too thick, simply add more water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently while stirring to ensure everything is well combined.
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).