Description
A creamy and comforting clam chowder filled with tender clams, potatoes, and savory bacon in a rich, velvety broth. This classic coastal favorite is perfect for chilly evenings and offers a hearty, flavorful meal that is easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Meat and Seafood
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams, drained
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 cups clam juice
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup heavy cream
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the rendered bacon drippings in the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon drippings and sauté until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes, clam juice, and water to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15 minutes.
- Make the Roux: In a separate small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
- Combine and Finish Chowder: Stir the roux mixture into the simmering soup pot. Add the heavy cream and drained clams, then simmer gently for 5 minutes, taking care not to boil after clams are added to preserve their tenderness.
- Season and Garnish: Season the chowder with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot topped with the reserved crispy bacon and freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
Notes
- For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot while cooking.
- Avoid boiling the chowder after adding clams to keep their texture tender and fresh.
- This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
