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Clam Chowder: A Hearty, Creamy Delight Perfect for Any Season
There’s something uniquely comforting about a bowl of clam chowder. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly winter day or serving it at a casual summer gathering, this creamy, rich soup never fails to satisfy. With its tender clams, savory vegetables, and luscious broth, clam chowder is a timeless classic that’s beloved by many.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make the perfect clam chowder from scratch. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can whip up a bowl of this comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
What is Clam Chowder?
Clam chowder is a type of soup or stew made with clams, vegetables, and either a creamy or broth-based liquid. There are several regional variations, but the two most popular types are New England Clam Chowder and Manhattan Clam Chowder.
- New England Clam Chowder is the creamy, rich version of the soup. It’s typically made with potatoes, celery, and onions in a creamy base, often thickened with flour or cream. This is the version we’ll be focusing on in this recipe.
- Manhattan Clam Chowder, on the other hand, has a tomato-based broth and is less creamy than its New England counterpart. It includes similar ingredients but with a more tangy, vegetable-forward profile.
Today, we’ll stick with the beloved New England Clam Chowder, which is creamy, comforting, and perfect for cozy dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Clam Chowder Recipe:
- Creamy and Flavorful: The velvety, rich broth combined with tender clams and fresh vegetables creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
- Simple Ingredients: Despite its restaurant-quality taste, clam chowder is made with ingredients you likely already have on hand — fresh clams, potatoes, onions, celery, and a bit of cream.
- Hearty & Filling: This soup is more than just a starter; it’s a complete meal in itself. It’s perfect for colder months or when you want something hearty and filling.
- Customizable: While this recipe is a classic, it’s easy to add your own twist. You can experiment with different herbs, seasonings, or toppings like crispy bacon or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh clams (or 2 cans of clams, drained, and with juice reserved)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups clam juice or seafood stock
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
- 2 tablespoons butter
