Creamy New England Clam Chowder
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of this Creamy New England Clam Chowder that elevates traditional recipes to a new level. Perfectly crafted with tender clams and a medley of fresh vegetables, this chowder delivers a delightful warmth with every spoonful. The addition of heavy cream gives it a luxurious finish that makes it irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a meal on its own, this chowder is a delicious solution for chilly days and a perfect replacement for salad!
6
Servings
133
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
onion
1 cup (diced)
celery
1/2 cup (diced)
leek
1/2 cup (diced)
garlic
1/4 teaspoon (chopped)
flour
2 tablespoons (all-purpose)
milk
1 quart (whole or 2%)
clams
1 cup (minced, with juice)
potato
1 cup (diced, peeled)
salt
1 tablespoon (to taste)
white pepper
1/4 teaspoon
dried thyme
1 teaspoon
heavy cream
1/2 cup
Instructions
1
In a large soup pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until bubbly.
2
Add the diced onion, celery, leek, and chopped garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, stirring frequently.
3
Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Stir vigorously until the mixture is well combined, creating a roux.
4
Gradually add in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps, ensuring the mixture is smooth.
5
Drain the minced clams and add the clam juice to the soup pot, stirring to combine.
6
Place the pot back on the stovetop and slowly bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often.
7
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add in the diced potatoes along with salt, white pepper, and dried thyme. Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
8
Add the minced clams back into the chowder and simmer for an additional 5-8 minutes to heat through.
9
Finish by stirring in the heavy cream until well incorporated and then adjust seasoning to taste.
10
Serve hot, enjoying each creamy spoonful!
Nutrition Information
7.5
Fat
10
Carbs
5
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recipe for?
This recipe is for a Creamy New England Clam Chowder that features tender clams, fresh vegetables, and a luxurious heavy cream finish.
How many servings does this clam chowder yield?
The recipe makes 6 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 133 calories.
What type of butter should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Which vegetables are included in the base?
The base includes diced onion, celery, leek, and chopped garlic.
How do I prepare the onion for this recipe?
You should dice enough onion to equal 1 cup.
What kind of flour is used for the roux?
Two tablespoons of all-purpose flour are used to thicken the chowder.
Can I use low-fat milk?
The recipe recommends using 1 quart of either whole or 2% milk.
Do I need to save the clam juice?
Yes, you should drain the minced clams and add the juice to the soup pot.
How should the potatoes be prepared?
The potatoes should be peeled and diced into 1-cup portions.
What seasonings are used in this chowder?
The chowder is seasoned with salt, white pepper, and dried thyme.
Why is white pepper used instead of black pepper?
White pepper provides a mild heat and keeps the creamy chowder looking clean and white.
How long should I sauté the initial vegetables?
Sauté the onion, celery, leek, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
What is the secret to a smooth chowder base?
Gradually add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps after creating the roux with flour and butter.
When do I add the potatoes to the pot?
Add the diced potatoes once the mixture has been brought to a gentle boil and then reduced to a simmer.
How long do the potatoes take to cook?
Simmer the potatoes for about 10 minutes or until they are tender.
When should the minced clams be added?
Add the minced clams back into the chowder after the potatoes are tender.
How long should the clams simmer?
Simmer the clams for an additional 5-8 minutes to ensure they are heated through.
How much heavy cream is added at the end?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of heavy cream to be stirred in at the finish.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 7.5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein does this chowder provide?
Each serving provides 5 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and comfort food.
How much dried thyme is required?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to melt the unsalted butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Should the soup be boiling when adding the heavy cream?
No, the cream is stirred in at the end after the simmering steps are complete.
How much garlic is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of chopped garlic.
Is the chowder served hot or cold?
It should be served hot to enjoy its creamy texture and flavors.
What are the main tags for this recipe?
Tags include clam chowder, creamy soup, New England, seafood, and comfort food.
Can this be used as a meal replacement?
Yes, the description suggests it is a delicious solution for a meal or a perfect replacement for salad.