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New England Clam Chowder

A close-up of a bowl of creamy New England clam chowder, topped with crispy bacon and fresh parsley.
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A rich and creamy New England clam chowder recipe, featuring tender clams, potatoes, and smoky bacon. This recipe provides tips for achieving authentic flavor and perfect consistency.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound bacon, diced
  • 2 cups chopped clams (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Oyster crackers for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chopped clams, potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and cold water until smooth to create a slurry.
  5. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering chowder. Cook, stirring constantly, until the chowder thickens, about 5 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the half-and-half and cook until heated through, but do not boil.
  7. Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with the reserved crisp bacon and oyster crackers.

Notes

  • For fresh clams, scrub them well and steam them open in a separate pot with a little water. Reserve the steaming liquid to add to the chowder for extra flavor. Discard any clams that do not open.
  • To avoid a chewy texture, do not overcook the clams. If using canned clams, add them towards the end of the cooking process.
  • For a less rich chowder, you can substitute some of the half-and-half with milk.
  • Consider this a great option if you are looking for meal planning ideas that are hearty and satisfying.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/new-england-clam-chowder-recipe/