Mom'S Clam Chowder
Creamy and hearty clam chowder with tender vegetables and rich butter-flavored broth, perfect for cozy dinners and seafood lovers seeking comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the cans of clams and pour them over the chopped vegetables.
- Add water to cover the vegetables and cook until tender, about 20 minutes.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter and add the flour.
- Blend and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the half and half (cream) to the mixture.
- Stir with a whip utensil until smooth and thickened.
- Add the clam mixture to the vegetables and clam broth; mix well.
- Season with salt, pepper, and sugar to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or sherry when cooking the vegetables. If you prefer a thicker chowder, increase the flour to 1 cup or use a cornstarch slurry. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the taste. If clams are unavailable, canned oysters are a good substitute for a similar seafood element. This dish is a comforting choice, much like the Perfect Tuna Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a satisfying meal. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or the Elegant Crab Salad for a complete seafood dining experience. This chowder also makes a great appetizer for seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the texture. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months, but note that the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Clam Chowder contains roughly 1161 calories, with 6g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 definitely use fresh clams! You'll need about 1 pound of fresh clams. Clean and steam them until they open, then chop and add them to the mixture. Reserve some of the clam broth to replace the water in the vegetable cooking step for added flavor.
What can I do if the chowder is too thick?
If your chowder turns out too thick, simply stir in a little additional half and half or clam broth to reach your desired consistency. Heat gently while stirring until everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed after adding more liquid.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the half and half with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. Use a dairy-free butter alternative to maintain the creamy texture. Be aware that the flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
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).