White Clam Chowder
A comforting and creamy white clam chowder featuring tender potatoes, savory clams, and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup offers a rich flavor with hints of parsley and milk, making it ideal for seafood lovers and those seeking a hearty, warming dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic in a little oil until fragrant.
- Pour in clam juice and add cubed potatoes. Cook until potatoes are almost tender.
- Add clams, parsley, and milk to the pot. Stir well.
- Cook a few minutes longer until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using clam juice instead of water, and opt for fresh garlic instead of garlic powder. If you want to make this a heartier dish, add diced carrots or celery along with the potatoes. You can also substitute milk with cream for a creamier texture. Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the white clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside a slice of Pineapple Custard Pie for dessert, as the sweetness complements the savory flavors of the chowder.
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 stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling the milk. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of water or additional clam juice to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Clam Chowder contains roughly 1106 calories, with 18g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (70% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 834mg per serving (36% 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 canned clams instead of fresh?
Yes, canned clams are a convenient alternative and will still provide great flavor. Drain the clams before adding them to the chowder, and add them towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming tough.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To make the chowder gluten-free, ensure that any broth or clam juice you use is certified gluten-free. You can thicken the chowder by using cornstarch mixed with a little cold water instead of flour.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal for chowder, as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they may break down and make the chowder too thick.
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).