New England Clam Chowder(Makes 8 Cups)
Rich and creamy New England clam chowder features tender clams, potatoes, and smoky salt pork, perfect for comforting meals and seafood lovers. A classic, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the salt pork very slowly until browned.
- Remove and reserve the pork scraps.
- Add the minced onions, chopped celery, and drained clams to the grease.
- Stir and cook slowly for about 5 minutes.
- Heat and stir in the clam juice and enough bottled clam juice to make 3 cups of liquid.
- Add 2 cups of raw, diced potatoes.
- Cover the pan and simmer the chowder until the potatoes are done but still somewhat firm.
- Add the reserved pork scraps and 3 tablespoons of butter. Simmer for 3 minutes more.
- Add heated milk or half and half cream.
- Do not boil the chowder.
- Serve hot with oyster crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of salt pork. You can substitute fresh clams for canned if you prefer; just ensure they are cleaned and cooked thoroughly. If you want a thicker chowder, add a slurry of cornstarch and water. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as clam juice can vary in saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with oyster crackers or crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a light salad, like Fresh Cauliflower-Broccoli Salad, to balance the richness of the chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the milk to separate. If the chowder thickens too much, add a little water or milk to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Clam Chowder(Makes 8 Cups) contains roughly 1187 calories, with 17g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (76% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 13g 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 make clam chowder ahead of time?
Yes, clam chowder can be made ahead. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain its creamy texture.
What can I use instead of milk in clam chowder?
If you want a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk or almond milk. For a richer texture, consider using a blend of cashew cream and vegetable broth, which will provide a similar creaminess without the dairy.
How can I make my chowder thicker?
To thicken your chowder, you can use a roux made from flour and butter, or add mashed potatoes. Alternatively, blend a portion of the chowder and stir it back in for a smooth, thicker consistency.
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).