Craving a warm and comforting meal? Dive into this classic New England Clam Chowder that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you cozy on a chilly day!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 slices bacon, chopped
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups clam juice
– 2 cups diced potatoes
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups chopped clams
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Pour in chicken broth, clam juice, potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in chopped clams, heavy cream, and butter. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Remove bay leaf, then serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and parsley.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Protein: 15g
**Popular questions:**
1. Can I use canned clams instead of fresh?
– Yes, canned clams can be used as a substitute for fresh clams. Just make sure to drain them well before adding to the chowder.
2. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
– Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
3. How can I make this chowder thicker?
– To thicken the chowder, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the chowder until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. Can I freeze New England Clam Chowder?
– While it is possible to freeze this chowder, the texture of the potatoes and cream may change once thawed. It is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavor and consistency.
5. How long will this chowder last in the refrigerator?
– This chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Add a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
2. Top the chowder with oyster crackers for some crunch.
3. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
4. Try adding corn or carrots for added sweetness and texture.
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for a flavorful twist.
6. Serve the chowder in bread bowls for a fun presentation.
7. Consider adding a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
8. Experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives for fresh flavor.
9. Make sure to simmer the chowder gently to prevent the cream from curdling.
10. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Use fresh clams for the best flavor, but canned clams can also work in a pinch.
2. Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can become mushy.
3. Crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch to the chowder.
4. Taste the chowder as you cook and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
5. Cooking the chowder on low heat helps meld the flavors together.
6. Stir the chowder gently to prevent the clams from breaking apart.
7. Serve the chowder with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
8. Use high-quality ingredients for the best results.
9. Allow the chowder to cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
10. Don’t forget the garnish of parsley for a pop of color and freshness.