Description
A rich, creamy New England–style clam chowder packed with tender clams, hearty potatoes, and savory herbs. This comforting soup is smooth, flavorful, and perfect served warm especially in a classic bread bowl for a cozy, restaurant-style experience.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for 4–6 servings):
For the Chowder:
2 cups chopped clams (fresh or canned, with juice reserved)
4 slices bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups clam juice (or reserved canned juice + water)
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Optional: bread bowls for serving
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add butter to the pot. Sauté onion and celery for 4–5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 3: Build the Base
Sprinkle in flour and stir well to form a light roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Potatoes
Slowly pour in clam juice while stirring to avoid lumps. Add diced potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Add Clams and Cream
Stir in clams, milk, and heavy cream. Let simmer gently for 5–10 minutes. Do not boil to prevent curdling.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon and parsley, optionally in a bread bowl.
Notes
- Use canned clams for convenience, but fresh clams add deeper flavor.
- For thicker chowder, mash some potatoes directly in the pot.
- Avoid boiling after adding cream to keep the texture smooth.
- Manhattan version: replace cream with tomatoes for a red broth variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American