Cooking has a way of bringing back memories, doesn’t it? These clam chowder recipes take me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen, and I’m so excited to share them with you today. Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying clam chowder for the first time, these recipes are sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Classic New England Clam Chowder
A rich and creamy classic that everyone loves.
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cans chopped clams with juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Process:
- In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Add onion and celery to the pot; cook until softened. Stir in potatoes and broth. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Add cream and clams, then season with salt and pepper. Heat through. Top with bacon and parsley before serving.
Make it Unique:
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add corn for a sweet twist!
Spicy Clam Chowder
Bring the heat with this tantalizing version.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, diced
- 3 cups diced potatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can chopped clams
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup cream
Process:
- Cook bacon in a pot until crispy, then remove. Sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeño in the drippings.
- Add potatoes and broth; simmer until tender. Stir in bacon, clams, cayenne, and cream until heated.
Make it Unique:
- Add diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Garnish with avocado slices for creaminess.
Corn Chowder with Clams
Creamy and sweet with a delightful crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can clams
- 1 cup cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Process:
- Sauté onion in a large pot until translucent. Add potatoes and broth; simmer until potatoes soften.
- Stir in corn, clams, and cream. Season to taste and garnish with basil.
Make it Unique:
- Experiment with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch!
Clam Chowder with Bacon and Spinach
A heart-healthy take that packs in the flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can clams
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Cook bacon until crispy; set aside. Sauté onion in bacon drippings.
- Add potatoes and broth, cook until tender. Stir in clams, spinach, and cream. Season to taste.
Make it Unique:
- Use kale instead of spinach for a different texture.
- Mix in some grated Parmesan for extra creaminess.
Coconut Curry Clam Chowder
Spicy and exotic, a fusion twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 cups fish broth
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 can clams
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Heat coconut oil; sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in coconut milk, broth, curry powder, and clams. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Make it Unique:
- Toss in some chopped cilantro for freshness.
- Mix in a teaspoon of ginger for an extra kick.
Vegan Clam Chowder
Deliciously plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 can coconut milk
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can chickpeas (as a clam substitute)
- Nutritional yeast for that umami flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Heat olive oil; sauté onion until soft. Add potatoes, broth; cook until tender.
- Stir in coconut milk, chickpeas, nutritional yeast, and season.
Make it Unique:
- Add smoked tempeh for a seafood-like flavor.
- Toss in seaweed for an authentic taste.
Manhattan Clam Chowder
A tangy tomato-based chowder that’s totally different.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can clams
- Italian seasoning to taste
Process:
- Cook bacon until crisp; remove. Sauté onion in drippings.
- Add tomatoes, potatoes, and broth; simmer until potatoes are soft. Stir in clams and season.
Make it Unique:
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley and oregano.
Clam Chowder with Sausage
A savory choice that packs extra flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 sausage links, sliced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cups potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can clams
- 1 cup cream
Process:
- Cook sausage and bacon together until browned. Remove and sauté onion.
- Stir in potatoes and broth. Cook until tender. Add clams and cream before serving.
Make it Unique:
- Use spicy sausage for an added kick.
- Swap in sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Clam Chowder with Garlic Bread Croutons
A delightful crunch with every spoonful!
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread, cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can clams
- 1 cup cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Process:
- Preheat oven; toss bread cubes with butter and garlic. Bake until golden.
- In a pot, combine potatoes and broth; simmer until tender. Stir in clams and cream; season.
Make it Unique:
- Sprinkle with Parmesan for a cheesy touch.
- Use sourdough for the croutons for added flavor!
Conclusion
Time to roll up your sleeves and give these clam chowder recipes a try! Each option is packed with flavor and warmth, ready to transform your mealtimes into something special. So, whether you want to stick with the classic or explore a new twist, there’s a chowder here just waiting for you to enjoy. Happy cooking!