basic clam chowder recipe

The Best basic clam chowder recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite basic clam chowder recipe. This hearty soup has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to impress your family and friends with a delicious and easy-to-make dish, this clam chowder recipe is sure to become a favorite. I’ve made it countless times, and every time it’s a hit with my family and kids.

It’s also a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you might have on hand, making it an ideal recipe for meal prep or when you’re trying to reduce food waste. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences.

You can add or subtract ingredients as you see fit, making it perfect for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions. But don’t worry if you’re not a fan of clams – the broth is rich and flavorful, even without them.

The key to making this recipe truly shine is in the technique used to cook the potatoes and onions until they’re nice and tender. This step takes some time but trust me, it’s worth it – the end result is a beautifully thickened soup that coats your tongue with each bite.

Basic Clam Chowder

4.6 from 961 votes

A hearty and comforting classic New England clam chowder. This recipe features tender clams in a creamy potato broth, perfect for a cozy meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chowder

2 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium potatoes, diced
2 cups chopped clams, drained with juice reserved
2 cups clam juice or fish stock
1 cup heavy cream
1 bay leaf
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic.
5Pour in the clam juice or fish stock and add the bay leaf.
6Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
7Stir in the chopped clams and their reserved juice.
8Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the clams are heated through.
9Add the heavy cream and stir well to combine.
10Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11Simmer the chowder for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined and the chowder has thickened slightly.
12Remove the bay leaf before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 14g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

This basic clam chowder recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and its simplicity makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to impress your family and friends with a delicious and easy-to-make dish, this clam chowder is sure to become a favorite.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences – simply add or subtract ingredients as you see fit, making it perfect for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Clam Chowder

Q1: What type of clams should I use in this recipe?

A: You can use either fresh or canned clams for this recipe, depending on what’s available in your area. Fresh clams will give the soup a more authentic taste, while canned clams are easier to find and just as delicious.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: While traditional clam chowder recipes rely on seafood for flavor, there are plenty of ways to make this dish vegetarian-friendly. Simply swap out the clams for extra vegetables like carrots or celery, or add some protein-rich tofu for added depth.

Q3: Is it safe to consume raw oysters?

A: If you’re concerned about food safety when eating raw oysters, consider substituting them with cooked mussels instead – they’ll still add plenty of flavor without any potential health risks.

Q4: How do I store leftover clam chowder?

A: Leftover clam chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer-term storage – just thaw overnight before reheating as needed.

Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: To ensure your clam chowder is gluten-free, be sure to check the ingredient labels on any packaged broths or seasonings you use – many brands now offer gluten-free options.

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