New England Chowder
Creamy and hearty New England clam chowder with tender potatoes, clams, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for comforting meals and seafood lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a large saucepan.
- Saute diced onion, pepper, and celery until tender.
- Put diced potatoes in a small saucepan with chicken broth and cook until barely done.
- Add cooked potatoes, then gradually add flour to the sauteed vegetables, stirring until a roux has formed.
- Slowly add hot milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add clam juice, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Add minced clams, cooked potatoes, broth, and seasonings, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute half of the margarine with olive oil. To thicken the chowder further, you can blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in. Use fresh clams if available for enhanced taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a simple salad or alongside Sarah's Grilled Chicken With Dijon Mayonnaise for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 frequently to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling, as it may cause the clams to become tough. You can also freeze the chowder for up to 2 months, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Chowder contains roughly 1730 calories, with 34g protein, 231g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (302% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (235% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1007mg per serving (44% 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?
Absolutely! Fresh clams will provide a superior flavor and texture. Be sure to clean and steam them before adding to the chowder. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Just mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the chowder to thicken.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper during the cooking process for an extra kick that complements the clam 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).