Red Clam Chowder
A hearty and flavorful red clam chowder blending tender potatoes, savory clams, and a hint of vinegar, perfect for seafood lovers seeking comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add enough water to cover the diced potatoes in a pot.
- Cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the chopped onion, minced clams, whole baby clams, tomato soup, and vinegar.
- Simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or milk after simmering. If you prefer a spicier chowder, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors. You can substitute fresh clams for canned ones if available, or use chicken broth instead of water for added richness. Serve with Party Crackers for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with a light seafood dish like Stuffed Bass to create a satisfying dinner experience.
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 to avoid curdling the tomato soup. 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 Red Clam Chowder contains roughly 465 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of potassium (14% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, fresh clams can be used in place of canned. Make sure to clean and steam them until they open, then add them to the chowder in the last few minutes of cooking. This will give your chowder a fresher flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this chowder vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the clams and replace the fishy flavor with seaweed or a splash of soy sauce. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the taste while maintaining the overall texture.
How can I adjust the thickness of the chowder?
If your chowder is too thick, simply add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to evaporate some liquid and concentrate the flavors.
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).