New England Corny Clam Chowder
A creamy, hearty New England clam chowder packed with tender clams, potatoes, and sweet corn, perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart saucepan, sauté chopped onions in oleo until soft, but not brown.
- Add chicken broth, diced potatoes, bay leaf, celery salt, and canned minced or chopped clams.
- Cook, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add creamed corn and milk.
- Heat through and serve. For a richer soup, substitute 1 cup of half and half for the milk.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh clams if available, as they add a wonderful briny flavor. You can substitute fresh corn for the creamed corn for a lighter option, or use low-fat milk for a healthier version. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. When sautéing the onions, be careful not to let them brown to maintain a delicate flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad for a light meal. Consider serving it alongside Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast for a heartier dinner option. Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor. A glass of chilled white wine complements the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the milk from curdling. You can add a splash of milk or water to thin the chowder if it thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Corny Clam Chowder contains roughly 876 calories, with 18g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (243% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1051mg per serving (46% 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 freeze New England Corny Clam Chowder?
While you can freeze chowder, the texture may change upon thawing, particularly the dairy. It's best to omit the milk before freezing and add it when reheating. Store in airtight containers and consume within 2-3 months for best quality.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or use clam juice for a more pronounced seafood flavor. Homemade broth can also enhance the taste, making the chowder richer and more satisfying.
How can I thicken the chowder?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the diced potatoes after cooking or add a slurry made from cornstarch and cold water. Another option is to incorporate a roux made from flour and butter, cooking it before adding to the soup.
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).