Leon Futrell'S Clam Chowder
A hearty clam chowder featuring tender potatoes and onions cooked in bacon grease, enriched with clams and cream for a comforting, savory seafood experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Barely cover potatoes and onions with water in a pot.
- Add bacon grease and cook until the potatoes and onions are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of milk or cream while simmering. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes before serving. You can substitute clams with canned seafood or even cooked chicken for a different flavor profile. If you want a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped chives. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping, or a simple green salad for a light meal. For a hearty dinner, consider serving it alongside grilled seafood or incorporating it into a seafood platter. This chowder also complements well with American recipes featuring bacon or smoked meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the cream to separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leon Futrell'S Clam Chowder contains roughly 1543 calories, with 12g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 131g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (34% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. It also contributes 7g 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?
Absolutely! Fresh clams will add a wonderful flavor and texture to your chowder. Be sure to clean them thoroughly and steam them until they open before adding to the chowder. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are well incorporated but not overcooked.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon grease and replace clams with a mix of vegetables like mushrooms or diced zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor, and consider adding some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
What can I do if my chowder is too salty?
If your chowder turns out too salty, you can balance it by adding diced potatoes or a splash of cream to absorb some of the saltiness. Cooking it with a few slices of bread can also help. Taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor.
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).