Razor Clam Chowder
Rich and creamy razor clam chowder with smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and a flavorful white sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the razor clams and save the liquor. Chop the clams into 1/2 to 3/4-inch pieces.
- Fry the diced bacon until almost done, then add the chopped onion and celery; cook until tender.
- Cook the diced potatoes separately and drain.
- Make a white sauce by melting the butter, then stirring in the flour, and gradually adding the milk, stirring constantly.
- Add the minced garlic or garlic powder, white pepper, and salt to the white sauce.
- Combine the cooked bacon, onion, celery, and chopped clams with the white sauce and potatoes.
- Simmer until flavors meld and chowder is heated through. Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of hot sauce to the chowder. If you don’t have razor clams, other shellfish like chopped shrimp or scallops can be used as substitutes. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the quantities as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for dipping. A fresh garden salad or sautéed greens also complements the dish well. For a comforting meal, pair it with Baked Beans Quintet or a side of Potato Squash Casserole for a hearty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the clams to become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Razor Clam Chowder contains roughly 3030 calories, with 64g protein, 522g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (279% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (155% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1562mg per serving (68% 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 frozen razor clams for this chowder?
Yes, you can use frozen razor clams. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Drain and chop them as directed in the recipe. The flavor may slightly differ, but the chowder will still be delicious.
How can I make this chowder dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use unsweetened almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. Thicken the chowder with a mix of cornstarch and water if necessary.
What can I do if the chowder is too thick?
If the chowder is too thick, simply add more milk or clam liquor to reach your desired consistency. Stir well over low heat until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
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).