Shirley Mckenzie'S Clam Chowder
A hearty and flavorful clam chowder featuring tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and savory clams, perfect for comforting meals or gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon until crisp in a kettle.
- Remove bacon and set aside.
- Stir onion into drippings in the kettle and saute until soft.
- Add potatoes, salt, and clam juice; cover and simmer 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in clams, tomatoes, thyme, and cooked bacon.
- Simmer 15 minutes longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a splash of white wine along with the clam juice. If you're short on time, frozen diced potatoes can be a great substitute for fresh ones. Adjust the level of salt based on the saltiness of your clam juice. You can also add a touch of cream for a creamier texture, similar to what you'd find in other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this clam chowder with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chowder. For an elevated experience, consider pairing it with Cabbage And Bacon Mashed Potatoes, which complement the dish beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley Mckenzie'S Clam Chowder contains roughly 466 calories, with 12g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (134% of the Daily Value), iron (73% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1010mg per serving (44% 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 clam chowder ahead of time?
Yes, this chowder can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting overnight. Just be sure to store it properly and reheat gently to maintain the best texture.
What can I use if I don't have clam juice?
If you don't have clam juice, you can substitute it with seafood broth or vegetable broth. This will still provide a flavorful base, although the chowder may lack the distinct clam flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this clam chowder?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like corn, celery, or green bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so all ingredients are tender and flavorful.
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).