Indulge in Classic Comfort with New England Clam Chowder
Hey there, soup lovers! Today, we’re diving into the rich and creamy world of New England Clam Chowder, a beloved classic that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
There’s something timeless about a steaming bowl of clam chowder, filled with tender chunks of potatoes, briny clams, and savory bacon, all swimming in a luscious, creamy broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food – warm, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.
Picture this: a chilly evening, a crackling fire, and a bowl of New England Clam Chowder, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of melted butter. Each spoonful is a taste of coastal New England – rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible.
But what makes New England Clam Chowder truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course for a cozy dinner at home or as a comforting starter for a special meal, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
So, whether you’re a die-hard chowder enthusiast or new to the joys of creamy seafood soups, New England Clam Chowder is the perfect choice for your next culinary adventure. Stay tuned for the recipe, coming soon to our blog. Until then, happy cooking and enjoy the cozy comforts of homemade chowder!
New England Clam Chowder
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon chopped
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes about 2 medium-sized potatoes
- 1 cup diced carrots about 2-3 carrots
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cans 6.5 ounces each minced clams, drained, with juice reserved
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread or oyster crackers for serving
Instructions
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove some of the bacon bits for garnish, leaving some in the pot for flavor.
- Add the finely chopped onion to the pot with the bacon and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes and diced carrots to the pot. Mix well to combine.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Bring the chowder to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Once the vegetables are tender, remove and discard the bay leaf.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the whole milk and heavy cream.
- In another bowl, create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with a few tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir the milk and cream mixture (and slurry, if using) into the chowder.
- Simmer the chowder for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
- Stir in the drained minced clams and reserved clam juice. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Taste the New England Clam Chowder and adjust the seasonings with more salt and black pepper if needed.
- Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with the reserved crispy bacon bits and chopped fresh parsley (if desired).
- Serve the New England Clam Chowder hot, accompanied by crusty bread or oyster crackers for dipping.