Turner'S Clam Chowder
Turner's Clam Chowder is a rich, creamy soup loaded with fresh clams, potatoes, and aromatic spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the clams thoroughly.
- Place the quahogs in a pot with 1/2 cup water.
- Cover tightly and steam until the clams open.
- Repeat the process with the cherrystones.
- Remove the clams from the shells and chop coarsely. Reserve the broth in a separate container.
- In the same pot, add clarified butter and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add diced onion, diced celery, white pepper, bay leaf, and thyme. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add flour to make a roux, stirring constantly.
- Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, ensuring it doesn't brown.
- Slowly add clam juice, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, being careful not to burn the thickened soup.
- Add the blanched and diced potato, cook until tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and chopped clams; bring the soup back to a boil.
- Season to taste and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of sherry or white wine after sautéing the garlic and vegetables. If fresh clams are unavailable, canned clams can be a convenient substitute. Just be sure to drain them and adjust the clam juice accordingly. For added texture, try including some diced bacon or smoked sausage for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this clam chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a delightful crunch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with Crab Cakes for a complete seafood meal or can be enjoyed alongside a simple green salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the cream to separate. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or more clam juice to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turner'S Clam Chowder contains roughly 762 calories, with 15g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (116% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 32g 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 for this recipe?
Yes, frozen clams can be used in clam chowder, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Adjust the simmering time to ensure they are heated through. The flavor may be slightly different than fresh, but they will still make a tasty chowder.
How do I thicken my clam chowder if it's too thin?
If your clam chowder is too thin, you can thicken it by making a slurry with equal parts flour and water, then stirring it into the soup. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens. Alternatively, you can mash some of the diced potatoes to naturally thicken the chowder.
What types of clams are best for clam chowder?
Cherrystones and quahogs are excellent choices for clam chowder due to their firm texture and rich flavor. However, you can also use other types of clams like Littlenecks or even canned clams in a pinch. Each type will impart a unique flavor to the chowder.
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).