Clam Chowder Recipe

This Clam Chowder Recipe is a creamy and flavorful delight that combines tender clams, fresh vegetables, and a hint of sweetness from apple juice. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this chowder stands out with its rich texture and satisfying taste. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or as a comforting appetizer, you’ll find this dish to be universally loved.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Texture: The blend of half-and-half and melted butter creates an irresistible creaminess that comforts the soul.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and clams meld beautifully with spices, ensuring every spoonful bursts with flavor.
• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process without compromising taste, making it perfect for novice cooks.
• Great for Gatherings: With enough servings to please a crowd, this chowder is an excellent choice for parties or family gatherings.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Enjoy it alone or serve with crusty bread; it pairs well with various sides.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious clam chowder.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Ovenproof container
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Essential for simmering all ingredients evenly, ensuring optimal flavor development.
• Ovenproof container: Crucial for baking the roux mixture, which eliminates raw flour taste while thickening the chowder.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without damaging your cookware, ensuring even mixing throughout the cooking process.

Ingredients

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

For the 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)

For the Chowder Flavor

• 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

For the Liquid Ingredients

• 3/4 cup apple juice or apple vinegar
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter (melted)
• 2 cups water
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 quarts half-and-half

How to Make Clam Chowder Recipe

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan

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

Step 2: Prepare the Roux

Combine the melted butter and flour in an ovenproof container. Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes to eliminate the raw flour flavor and stabilize the chowder.

Step 3: Thicken the Chowder

Stir the roux (butter-flour mixture) into the chowder. Cook and stir until thickened; it should be slightly less thick than cookie dough. Remove chowder from heat.

Step 4: Final Touches

Stir in half-and-half until blended. Heat to serving temperature while stirring occasionally. Serve immediately with crusty sourdough bread and extra Tabasco on the side.

Enjoy your homemade clam chowder!

How to Serve Clam Chowder Recipe

Serving clam chowder can elevate your dining experience, making it warm and inviting. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious soup that will impress your guests.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the chowder in bowls alongside slices of crusty sourdough bread for dipping. The bread complements the creamy texture of the chowder perfectly.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top of each bowl before serving. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness.

In Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve your clam chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also provides an edible container!

Accompanied by Crackers

• Offer a variety of crackers on the side for crunch. Oyster crackers are a classic choice, but any crispy cracker will do.

How to Perfect Clam Chowder Recipe

Achieving the perfect clam chowder requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your cooking process.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh clams and vegetables will yield the best flavor and texture in your chowder.
• Balance flavors: Adjust salt and spices to suit your taste. A little extra pepper can give it a nice kick.
• Avoid overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
• Make ahead: Prepare your clam chowder a day in advance. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding crispy fried onions or smoked paprika for additional flavor layers.

Best Side Dishes for Clam Chowder Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your clam chowder can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful contrast to the savory soup, making it a comforting choice.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring extra nutrients and textures that complement the creamy chowder.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing, gooey grilled cheese sandwiches make for a delicious dipper.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an enjoyable crunch alongside the smooth chowder.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds vibrant color and freshness, enhancing your meal visually and nutritionally.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making clam chowder can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Low-Quality Clams: Always choose fresh or high-quality canned clams. This ensures rich flavors in your chowder.
• Skipping the Roux: Not creating a roux can lead to a watery texture. Make sure to cook the butter and flour together to thicken your chowder properly.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cook vegetables just until tender. Overcooked veggies can become mushy and lose their shape.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your chowder bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and spices accordingly.
• Not Allowing It to Simmer Long Enough: Simmering helps meld the flavors together. Don’t rush this step for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover clam chowder in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chowder to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Clam Chowder Recipe

• Freeze clam chowder for up to 2 months in airtight freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Clam Chowder Recipe

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm the chowder in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat clam chowder in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently until heated through, approximately 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a clam chowder recipe that might help you out!

Can I use different types of clams for my clam chowder recipe?

Yes! You can use any type of clams that you prefer or have available. Just ensure they are cleaned and prepared well.

What is the best way to thicken my clam chowder recipe?

Creating a roux by cooking equal parts butter and flour is one effective method. This will give your chowder a creamy consistency.

How do I enhance the flavor of my clam chowder?

Adding herbs like thyme and bay leaves, along with seasoning adjustments, can greatly enhance the flavor profile of your chowder.

Can I make this clam chowder recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or another plant-based milk alternative for a creamy texture without dairy.

What is the ideal way to serve clam chowder?

Clam chowder is best served hot with crusty sourdough bread on the side. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs or additional black pepper.

Final Thoughts

This clam chowder recipe is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. Whether you want to add more veggies or spice it up with extra seasonings, feel free to customize it based on your taste. Give it a try today!

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Clam Chowder Recipe

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This Clam Chowder Recipe is a comforting bowl of creamy goodness that captures the essence of classic New England cuisine. With tender clams mingling with fresh vegetables and a unique hint of sweetness from apple juice, this chowder is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. The rich texture and satisfying flavors make it a universally loved dish, ideal for chilly nights or as a hearty appetizer. Easy to prepare, this chowder simplifies the cooking process while ensuring that every spoonful delivers delightful taste.

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 apple juice or apple vinegar
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter (melted)
• 2 cups water
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 quarts half-and-half

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine diced potatoes, celery, onion, green pepper, leeks, clams, salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, Tabasco sauce, and apple juice. Simmer until the potatoes are tender.
2. Prepare the roux by mixing melted butter and flour in an ovenproof container. Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes to eliminate raw flour flavor.
3. Stir the roux into the chowder until thickened. Remove from heat.
4. Blend in half-and-half and heat through before serving with crusty sourdough bread.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 50mg