Clam chowder is a classic American dish that has been around for centuries, and is a favorite of many. The creamy, chunky soup is filled with delicious, tender clams and a variety of vegetables, making it a hearty meal that is sure to satisfy. Whether you prefer it New England-style with a creamy base, or Manhattan-style with a tomato base, clam chowder is a comfort food staple that is sure to please.
Making a pot of delicious clam chowder is easy and satisfying. The key to making a great chowder is to start with the freshest, highest quality ingredients you can find. When selecting clams, look for ones that are tightly closed and have a mild briny smell. If any of the clams are open, give them a gentle tap. If they don’t close, discard them. You can also use canned clams, which are more convenient, but fresh clams will give you the best flavor.
Once you have your clams, it’s time to start cooking. Begin by sautéing some onions and garlic in a Dutch oven or large pot. Add in some diced potatoes, celery and carrots and cook until the vegetables are tender. Next, add some white wine or clam juice to the pot and bring it to a simmer before adding in the clams. Simmer until the clams are cooked through, about 5 minutes. Next, add some heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer. If using fresh clams, ladle out the soup and discard any unopened clams. Add some butter, salt and pepper to taste, and you’re done!
Clam chowder is a classic dish that is easy to make and sure to please. The key to making a delicious chowder is to start with the freshest ingredients you can find. Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s easy to whip up a pot of delicious chowder in no time. Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread for a hearty and comforting meal.
Tips for Making the Best Clam Chowder
Making a pot of delicious clam chowder is easy, but there are a few tips that will help you make the best chowder possible. Here are some of our top tips for making the best clam chowder:
- Start with the freshest ingredients you can find. Fresh clams, local vegetables, and high-quality cream will give you the best flavor.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine or sherry to the soup.
- Don’t overcook the clams or they will become tough and chewy.
- If you like a thicker chowder, try adding a few tablespoons of cornstarch or flour to thicken it up.
- For the creamiest chowder, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- For a healthier version, use low-fat milk or a combination of milk and cream.
Serving Suggestions
Clam chowder is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect as a light meal on its own. It’s also a great side dish to serve with grilled or roasted meats. Here are some of our favorite serving suggestions for clam chowder:
- Serve it with a crusty loaf of French bread or garlic toast.
- Top it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans.
- Top it with some crispy bacon bits or croutons.
- Serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is clam chowder?
Clam chowder is a classic American dish that has been around for centuries. It is a creamy, chunky soup made with tender clams and a variety of vegetables. It is usually served as a light meal on its own, or as a side dish with grilled or roasted meats.
What are the different types of clam chowder?
The two most common types of clam chowder are New England-style and Manhattan-style. New England-style clam chowder is creamy and thick, and typically made with a base of cream or milk. Manhattan-style clam chowder is thinner and has a tomato base.
What ingredients do I need to make clam chowder?
To make a pot of delicious clam chowder, you will need clams, potatoes, onions, garlic, celery, carrots, white wine or clam juice, butter, heavy cream, salt and pepper. You can also add other ingredients such as bacon, herbs, and spices for extra flavor.
How do I select the best clams for clam chowder?
When selecting clams for clam chowder, look for ones that are tightly closed and have a mild briny smell. If any of the clams are open, give them a gentle tap. If they don’t close, discard them.
Can I use canned clams for clam chowder?
Yes, you can use canned clams for clam chowder. Canned clams are more convenient, but fresh clams will give you the best flavor.
