Texas Style Clam Chowder
A hearty Texas-style clam chowder featuring smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and savory clams, perfect for comforting gatherings or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook and stir bacon and minced onion until bacon is crisp and onion is tender.
- Stir in reserved clam liquid, diced potatoes, water, and diced celery.
- Cook uncovered until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add clams, tomatoes, salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme. Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. You can substitute fresh clams for canned ones if preferred; just make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly. If you want a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream towards the end of cooking. For added heat, toss in some diced jalapenos. This chowder pairs perfectly with cornbread or a side of grilled jalapeno peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Texas Style Clam Chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley for color. It goes wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with cornbread-bacon dressing for a Southern flair. A sprinkle of cheese on top just before serving can also enhance the flavors beautifully.
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 bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Style Clam Chowder contains roughly 170 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g 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 frozen clams instead of canned?
Yes, frozen clams can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw them properly and adjust the cooking time as needed. The texture may differ slightly from canned clams, but they'll still add great flavor to the chowder.
Is there a vegetarian version of this chowder?
Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water. Replace the clams with additional vegetables like corn or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chowder ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store it properly and reheat it gently before serving to maintain the best texture.
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).