New England Clam Chowder
Craving a warm and comforting meal? Dive into this classic New England Clam Chowder that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you cozy on a chilly day!
Ingredients:
- 2 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups clam juice
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups chopped clams
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- 1. In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- 2. Add onion, celery, and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
- 3. Pour in chicken broth, clam juice, potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- 4. Stir in chopped clams, heavy cream, and butter. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- 5. Remove bay leaf, then serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and parsley.
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use canned clams instead of fresh?
- Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
- Q: How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute canned clams for fresh clams in this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the chowder.
A: Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of the chowder.
A: To make this chowder gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients, including the bacon and clam juice, are gluten-free. You can also thicken the chowder with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or potato starch.
Helpful tips:
- 1. For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the chowder before serving.
- 2. To make the chowder thicker, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon.
- 3. Serve the chowder with oyster crackers or crusty bread for a delicious accompaniment.
Expert Secrets:
- 1. Use fresh clams for the best flavor, but canned clams can be a convenient alternative.
- 2. Don’t overcook the clams to ensure they remain tender and juicy in the chowder.
- 3. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.