New York Clam Chowder
A hearty New York clam chowder with tender potatoes, carrots, and savory clams, flavored with bacon, thyme, and tomatoes—a comforting seafood soup perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped bacon with the chopped onion in a large pot.
- When the onion is soft, add the canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and hot water.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Add the chopped clams with their juice and the thyme to the pot.
- Simmer the chowder for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon or adding a splash of white wine to the pot. If clams are unavailable, canned clams can be a substitute, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste; try adding parsley or dill along with thyme. Additionally, using low-sodium broth can help control the saltiness of the chowder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the New York Clam Chowder hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside Mom'S Oven Barbecued Ribs for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the clams from becoming rubbery. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New York Clam Chowder contains roughly 489 calories, with 16g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (261% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (137% of the Daily Value), and iron (129% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 902mg per serving (39% 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 make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, this chowder can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the dish. However, it's best to add the clams just before serving to maintain their texture.
What can I use instead of fresh clams?
If fresh clams are not available, canned clams can be used as a convenient substitute. Drain them and add them at the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking. Adjust the liquid accordingly to keep the chowder flavorful.
Is it possible to make this chowder vegetarian?
Yes, to create a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, which mimics the depth that bacon would provide. Ensure to use vegetarian-friendly clam alternatives if desired.
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).