Classic Clam Chowder

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 8

Classic Clam Chowder is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the taste of the ocean right into your kitchen. Perfect for any season, this chowder combines creamy textures with the savory flavor of clams, making it a timeless favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy texture that warms you from the inside out.
  • Smoky bacon adds a delightful depth of flavor.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Uses pantry staples, so no need for any fancy ingredients.

Ingredients

4 slices bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cans (6.5 oz each) chopped clams, with juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Ingredients Explained

Bacon brings a smoky, savory element that complements the sweetness of the clams. Unsalted butter helps to sauté the vegetables without overpowering them with salt. The onion and celery create a flavorful base, while garlic adds a punch of aromatic goodness. All-purpose flour thickens the chowder, making it luxuriously creamy. Chicken broth adds depth and richness, while whole milk and heavy cream contribute to the chowder's silky texture. Potatoes bulk up the chowder, adding heartiness. Chopped clams, with their juice, are the star, providing that essential briny flavor. Finally, salt, pepper, and parsley round out the dish, adding freshness and a pop of color.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you find the chowder too thick, add a splash more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
  • For a smokier flavor, consider using smoked bacon.
  • Let the chowder sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop even more.

Detailed Instructions

Start by chopping the bacon into small pieces and cook it in a large pot over medium heat. You'll want to get it nice and crispy to add that irresistible crunch to your chowder. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the drippings in the pot.

Add the unsalted butter to the bacon drippings in the pot. Toss in the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Stir them around for about 5 minutes until the veggies are soft and the kitchen smells heavenly.

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables. Stir it in to coat everything evenly, ensuring there are no clumps. This step is crucial as it will help thicken your chowder later on.

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the whole milk and heavy cream. Take your time to whisk well, avoiding any lumps. The mixture should start to look creamy and smooth.

Now, add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Stir in the chopped clams along with their juice. Let the chowder cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Taste your chowder and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Before serving, garnish with the fresh parsley and the reserved crispy bacon pieces for a touch of color and extra flavor.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings.
2. Add butter to the pot. Stir in the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk and cream, ensuring no lumps form.
5. Add the potatoes to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
6. Stir in the chopped clams with their juice, and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley and reserved bacon before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This clam chowder pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crusty sourdough bread for dipping. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chowder. For a little extra indulgence, serve with a glass of crisp white wine that complements the seafood flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, fresh clams can be used. Just steam them first and reserve the juice to use in the chowder.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
You can substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
How long does this chowder keep?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid separating.

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