Clam Chowder Recipe

This clam chowder recipe is a delightful combination of creamy goodness and robust flavors. Perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings, this New England classic features tender clams, hearty potatoes, and a splash of sherry, making it an appealing dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly day or at a festive gathering, this clam chowder will surely impress your guests with its rich taste and comforting texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of half-and-half and melted butter creates a velvety base that elevates the chowder’s taste.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a few fresh ingredients to make this delicious dish, making it accessible for home cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a starter or main dish; this clam chowder is perfect paired with crusty sourdough bread.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious chowder cooking away in no time.
• Feed a Crowd: This recipe yields 10 servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth cooking. Having the right equipment makes preparing your clam chowder recipe easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Ovenproof container
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for simmering all ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Ovenproof container: Useful for baking the flour and butter mixture to eliminate any raw flavor while thickening the chowder.

Ingredients

This clam chowder recipe is so creamy and flavorful, made with clams, potatoes, and sherry for the best New England clam chowder recipe.

For the Chowder Base

• 1 cup diced Yukon Gold potatoes (1/2-inch dice)
• 1 cup diced celery (1/2-inch dice)
• 1 cup diced yellow onion (1/2-inch dice)
• 1 cup diced green pepper (1/2-inch dice)
• 1 cup diced leeks (green parts and rooty ends removed – 1/2-inch dice)
• 3/4 cup chopped clams (in their juices), canned or frozen
• 3/4 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
• 3/4 tablespoon dried thyme
• 6 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon Tabasco
• 3/4 cup sherry apple vinegar

For Thickening

• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, melted
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

For Cooking

• 2 cups water
• 2 quarts half-and-half

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Clam Chowder Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large saucepan, combine the potatoes, celery, onion, green pepper, leeks, clams, salt and pepper, thyme, bay leaves, Tabasco, and sherry. Simmer this mixture until the potatoes are thoroughly cooked.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Combine the melted butter and flour in an ovenproof container. Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes. This process eliminates the raw flour flavor while stabilizing the chowder.

Step 3: Combine Roux with Chowder

Stir the roux (butter-flour mixture) into the chowder. Cook while stirring until it reaches a thick consistency; it should be slightly less thick than cookie dough. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Final Touches

Stir in half-and-half until well blended. Heat to serving temperature while stirring occasionally. Serve immediately with crusty sourdough bread and extra Tabasco on the side for those who like an extra kick!

How to Serve Clam Chowder Recipe

Serving clam chowder is all about enhancing its rich, creamy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your clam chowder experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: A classic pairing that complements the chowder’s creaminess.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a bit of crunch and flavor that pairs well with the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Brightens up the dish with a fresh taste.
• Chives: Offers a mild onion flavor that enhances the chowder.

As an Appetizer

• In Small Bowls: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer at your next gathering.
• With Oyster Crackers: Adds a fun crunch and is a traditional accompaniment.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine balances the richness of the chowder.
• Coleslaw: Provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

How to Perfect Clam Chowder Recipe

Perfecting your clam chowder can make all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure you create a delicious bowl every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh clams and vegetables enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allowing ingredients to simmer ensures they meld well together.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to find the perfect balance of flavors.
• Incorporate Cream Gradually: Add half-and-half slowly for a smoother texture.
• Consider Adding Bacon: For extra flavor, sauté some diced bacon before adding other ingredients.

Best Side Dishes for Clam Chowder Recipe

Clam chowder pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some wonderful options that complement its creamy essence perfectly.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and moist, cornbread adds a delightful contrast.
2. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy and tangy, they offer a nice crunch against the smooth soup.
3. Garden Salad: A light salad provides freshness and balance to your meal.
4. Potato Chips: Simple and crunchy, they make for an easy side option.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Adds depth with their caramelized flavors.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Rich and savory, stuffed mushrooms pair beautifully with chowder.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making clam chowder is an art, but many home cooks stumble on a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong type of potatoes: Not all potatoes work well in clam chowder. Choose Yukon Gold for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape during cooking.
• Overcooking the clams: Clams can become rubbery if overcooked. Add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their tender texture.
• Skipping the roux step: The roux helps to thicken the chowder and develop flavor. Don’t skip baking the butter and flour mixture; it’s crucial for a rich taste.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Clam chowder needs the right balance of flavors. Taste as you go, and adjust salt, pepper, and Tabasco according to your preference.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Simmering allows flavors to meld. Be patient and let your chowder cook until all ingredients are perfectly tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover clam chowder in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing Clam Chowder Recipe

• Freeze clam chowder in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Clam Chowder Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chowder in a covered dish, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of milk or half-and-half if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about clam chowder or have specific questions, you’re in the right place! Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious clam chowder recipe.

How do I make my clam chowder thicker?

You can make your clam chowder thicker by adding more roux or using less half-and-half. Another option is to blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.

Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh clams can enhance the flavor of your clam chowder recipe. Just ensure they are cleaned properly before adding them to the pot.

What is the best way to serve clam chowder?

For an authentic experience, serve your clam chowder with crusty sourdough bread and offer extra Tabasco on the side for those who like a kick.

Is this clam chowder recipe gluten-free?

This particular clam chowder recipe contains flour, so it’s not gluten-free. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.

Can I customize this clam chowder recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like corn or carrots, or swap out half-and-half with cream for an even richer consistency.

Final Thoughts

This creamy clam chowder recipe showcases rich flavors that will warm your heart. It’s perfect for any occasion and offers plenty of room for customization based on your tastes. Whether you enjoy it as is or decide to add your favorite ingredients, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Try making it today!

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Clam Chowder

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This classic clam chowder recipe delivers a symphony of flavors with its creamy base and tender vegetables, making it an ideal comfort dish for chilly evenings or social gatherings. With each spoonful, you’ll savor the delightful combination of clams, Yukon Gold potatoes, and a hint of sherry that elevates this New England staple. Quick to prepare and perfect for family feasts, this clam chowder is not just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to impress. Serve it alongside crusty sourdough bread for a truly cozy dining experience.

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup diced Yukon Gold potatoes
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup diced green pepper
• 1 cup diced leeks (green parts only)
• 3/4 cup chopped clams (canned or frozen)
• 3/4 cup half-and-half
• 3/4 cup melted butter
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 quarts half-and-half
• Sherry apple vinegar, salt, black pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and Tabasco

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine the potatoes, celery, onion, green pepper, leeks, clams, salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, Tabasco, and sherry. Simmer until the potatoes are tender.
2. In an ovenproof container, mix melted butter with flour and bake at 325°F for 30 minutes.
3. Stir the roux into the chowder until thickened to a dough-like consistency. Remove from heat.
4. Gradually add half-and-half to the mixture while stirring until well blended. Heat gently before serving with crusty bread.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: New England

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups / 360g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For an even richer flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs like chives as garnish. If using fresh clams instead of canned, ensure they are properly cleaned before cooking.