How to Make the Perfect Clam Chowder

By
Alisa G
-
Clam chowder
Photo by Kevin Lanceplaine on Unsplash

Clam chowder is a comforting, creamy soup brimming with flavors. Here’s a step-by-step recipe and guide to creating the perfect clam chowder.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices of bacon
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced into cubes
  • 2 cups chopped clams
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon, but leave the bacon drippings in the pot. In the same pot, saute the diced onion and celery. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  2. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine, creating a roux. Cook for a few minutes.
  3. Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth while stirring. Add the potatoes and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Stir in the chopped clams and heavy cream. Simmer (but don’t boil) for an additional 5-10 minutes until the clams are heated through. 
  5. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with bacon and enjoy!