Homemade Clam Chowder Recipe
Experience the comforting and creamy flavors of New England with our Homemade Clam Chowder recipe. This classic American soup is packed with tender clams, hearty potatoes, and a rich, savory broth that's perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Easy to prepare and sure to satisfy, this clam chowder is a must-try for seafood lovers.
🛒Ingredients
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup clam juice
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cans (6.5 ounces each) of chopped clams, drained and juice reserved
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Oyster crackers, for serving (optional)
🔧Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
📝Instructions
- 1
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- 2
Add the diced onion and celery to the pot and sauté in the bacon drippings until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- 3
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to form a roux.
- 4
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and clam juice, ensuring there are no lumps from the flour. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 5
Add the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- 6
Stir in the heavy cream and drained clams, and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf.
- 7
Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon pieces and oyster crackers if desired.
🥗Nutrition Information
⚡Calories per serving: 380
🏷️Recipe Tags
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh clams. Simply steam them until they open, then chop and use in the recipe. Reserve the steaming liquid to use as clam juice.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the chowder.
