Soup Clam Chowder
A comforting, creamy clam chowder with smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and rich milk, perfect for cozy gatherings and seafood lovers seeking hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon and chopped onions until bacon is crispy and onions are translucent.
- Add clam juice, water, and diced potatoes; bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender.
- Stir flour into 1/2 cup of milk until smooth, then add to the chowder, stirring until it thickens.
- Add remaining milk, diced clams, butter, salt, and pepper; heat to boiling and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker chowder, consider adding more flour or using a potato masher to break down some of the potatoes. To enhance the flavor, try incorporating herbs like thyme or parsley. If you're out of clams, canned corn or diced shrimp can serve as tasty substitutes. For a smoky touch, use smoked bacon instead of regular bacon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a delightful crunch. A side salad or some steamed vegetables pairs nicely to balance the richness of the chowder. This dish also complements well with American recipes like the Wild Rice And Country Ham Tart for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soup Clam Chowder contains roughly 1326 calories, with 20g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1307mg per serving (57% 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 fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, fresh clams can be used, but you'll need to cook them first to open them. Make sure to reserve the clam juice for the chowder. This adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish, making it even more delicious.
How can I make this chowder healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and low-fat milk instead of whole milk. You can also increase the amount of vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to add more nutrients without compromising flavor.
Is it possible to freeze clam chowder?
While it's possible to freeze clam chowder, the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. When reheating, add a bit of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
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).