Clam Chowder Recipe

This clam chowder recipe is the perfect blend of creamy goodness and rich flavors, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or special occasions. The combination of fresh clams, tender potatoes, and a hint of sherry creates a delightful experience that warms the soul. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main dish, this chowder stands out for its comforting texture and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Rich Flavor: This clam chowder is packed with flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of ingredients, including clams and sherry.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet satisfying for seasoned cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a filling meal; it’s sure to please any crowd.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this chowder fits right in at any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make preparing this clam chowder recipe smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Ovenproof container
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Essential for simmering all your ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Ovenproof container: Perfect for baking the roux to eliminate raw flour flavor while stabilizing your chowder.

Ingredients

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

Vegetables and Clams

• 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)

Seasonings and Liquids

• 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 sherry apple vinegar

Base Ingredients

• 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: Prepare Your Ingredients

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

Step 2: Bake 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: Combine Everything Together

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

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Heat to serving temperature while stirring occasionally. Serve immediately with crusty sourdough bread and extra Tabasco on the side. Enjoy your delicious clam chowder!

How to Serve Clam Chowder Recipe

Clam chowder is a delightful dish that’s best enjoyed fresh and hot. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your clam chowder experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – Serve with warm, crusty sourdough bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Pair with garlic bread for an extra flavor kick.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives – Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion taste.

Accompaniments

• Oyster Crackers – Offer oyster crackers on the side for added crunch.
• Lemon Wedges – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chowder for brightness.

Garnishes

• Crispy Bacon Bits – Top with crispy bacon bits for a savory touch.
• Tabasco Sauce – Provide Tabasco sauce on the table for those who like heat.

How to Perfect Clam Chowder Recipe

Creating the perfect clam chowder requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your chowder game.

• Use Fresh Clams – If possible, opt for fresh clams instead of canned. They provide better flavor and texture.
• Don’t Rush the Simmering – Allow the ingredients to simmer until the potatoes are tender. This enhances the overall taste.
• Make Your Roux Right – Bake your butter and flour mixture adequately to avoid raw flour flavors in your chowder.
• Avoid Overcooking Cream – Stir in half-and-half gently and do not boil after adding; this keeps it creamy without curdling.

Best Side Dishes for Clam Chowder Recipe

Complementing your clam chowder with the right side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs well, offering a contrasting texture and flavor.
3. Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed asparagus or broccoli adds freshness to your meal.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges serve as a hearty option alongside your bowl of clam chowder.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that complements the creamy soup.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Classic grilled cheese sandwiches make for a comforting pairing with clam chowder.

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 tips to ensure your clam chowder recipe turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets can break down too much. Stick with Yukon Gold for a creamy texture without mushiness.
• Overcooking clams: If you cook the clams too long, they can become rubbery. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste your chowder before serving. You may need to adjust salt or pepper levels to enhance flavors.
• Skipping the roux: The roux is essential for thickening your chowder. Don’t skip this step; it adds both flavor and consistency.
• Not using fresh ingredients: While canned clams are convenient, using fresh clams significantly enhances the flavor of your clam chowder recipe.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover clam chowder in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Clam Chowder Recipe

• Freeze clam chowder in freezer-safe containers.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Make sure to leave space at the top of each container for expansion.

Reheating Clam Chowder Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place chowder in an oven-safe dish, covering it with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat slowly over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of clams for a clam chowder recipe?

The best clams for a clam chowder recipe are usually littleneck or cherrystone clams due to their sweet flavor and tender texture.

Can I make this clam chowder recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or almond milk and use dairy-free butter for a delicious dairy-free version.

How do I thicken my clam chowder recipe?

If your clam chowder is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup while simmering until thickened.

Can I add vegetables to my clam chowder recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include corn, carrots, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This clam chowder recipe is not only creamy and flavorful but also easy to customize based on your preferences. You can experiment with different vegetables or add more spices to suit your taste. Try this comforting dish today and enjoy its versatility!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Clam Chowder Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of our creamy Clam Chowder Recipe, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This delightful dish features a rich blend of fresh clams, tender Yukon Gold potatoes, and aromatic vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a velvety half-and-half base. The addition of sherry elevates the flavors, making each spoonful a comforting experience. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or as the star of your main course, this chowder is sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup diced Yukon Gold potatoes
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup diced green pepper
• 1 cup diced leeks
• 3/4 cup chopped clams (canned or frozen)
• 3/4 cup melted butter
• 2 quarts half-and-half
• 3/4 cup sherry apple vinegar
• 3/4 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
• 3/4 tablespoon dried thyme
• 6 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon Tabasco
• 2 cups water
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, combine potatoes, celery, onion, green pepper, leeks, clams, salt and pepper, thyme, bay leaves, Tabasco, and sherry. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
2. Mix melted butter and flour in an ovenproof container. Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes to create roux.
3. Stir roux into the chowder until thickened slightly. Remove from heat and mix in half-and-half until blended.
4. Heat gently to serving temperature and serve immediately with crusty sourdough bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 65mg