New England Clam Chowder: A Classic Comfort Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 celery stalks (reserve tender leaves) trimmed, quartered lengthwise, then sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 (10-ounce) cans chopped clams in juice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 pound Idaho potatoes, cut into 1/2- inch cubes
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Up to 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Oyster crackers (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and celery and sauté until softened, mixing often.
  2. Stir in the flour to distribute evenly. Add the stock, juice from 2 cans of chopped clams (reserve clams), cream, bay leaves, and potatoes and stir to combine.
  3. Bring to a simmer, stirring consistently (the mixture will thicken), then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook 20 minutes, stirring often, until the potatoes are nice and tender.
  4. Then, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, add clams and cook until clams are just firm, another 2 minutes.
  5. If using fish sauce, add 1 tablespoon at a time, tasting after each addition to make sure the chowder is to your liking.
  6. Stir in additional cream if desired for a thicker, creamier chowder.
  7. Remove from heat and remove the bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with the parsley. Serve with oyster crackers, if desired.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Add bacon or pancetta for added flavor and texture.
  • Include other vegetables such as carrots or corn for added color and variety.
  • Substitute clam juice with seafood stock for a richer seafood flavor.
  • Try using coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Add cooked diced bacon or smoked salmon as a topping for added smokiness.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, dill, or Old Bay seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.
  • For a spicy twist, add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
  • Include other types of seafood such as shrimp or scallops for a mixed seafood chowder.
  • Make it vegetarian by omitting the clams and using vegetable broth instead of chicken or seafood broth.

Recipe overview

Enjoy a bowl of hearty and creamy New England Clam Chowder with this authentic recipe. This dish is a classic favorite, featuring tender clams, creamy potatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for any time of the year, but especially beloved during those cold winter months. With this recipe, you'll learn how to make a comforting and filling meal that's simple to prepare yet impressive enough for guests. Expect a savory, satisfying chowder that will transport you straight to the coastal regions of New England.

Common questions

  1. Can I use fresh clams instead of canned clams? Yes, you can use fresh clams instead of canned clams. Just make sure to steam the fresh clams until they open, remove them from the shells, and chop them before adding to the chowder.
  2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the chowder. However, keep in mind that the texture and richness of the chowder will be slightly different.
  3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken or vegetable broth for a vegetable-based broth and omitting the clams. You can also use a dairy-free alternative for the butter and cream.
  4. What can I serve with New England Clam Chowder? New England Clam Chowder is often served with oyster crackers on the side. Additionally, you can serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
  5. How long does New England Clam Chowder last in the refrigerator? New England Clam Chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in a covered container. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before consuming.
  6. Can I freeze New England Clam Chowder? Yes, you can freeze New England Clam Chowder. However, the texture of the potatoes and the cream may change slightly upon thawing. It is best to consume it within 2-3 months of freezing.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the chowder and allow for stirring and simmering.
  • Wooden Spoon - A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the chowder without scratching the pot.
  • Soup Ladle - A soup ladle is helpful for serving the chowder into bowls.
  • Soup Bowls - Deep soup bowls are perfect for serving and enjoying the clam chowder.
  • Oyster Crackers Bowl - If serving with oyster crackers, a small bowl for the crackers is convenient.
  • Soup Spoons - Soup spoons are recommended for easy eating of the chowder.
  • Garnish Bowl - A small bowl for holding chopped fresh parsley for garnishing the chowder.
  • Napkins - Napkins are essential for keeping hands and surfaces clean while enjoying the chowder.

Origin stories

New England Clam Chowder, a creamy delight brimming with potatoes and clams, traces its roots back to the Northeastern United States. The dish's origins are deeply intertwined with the fishing culture of the area, particularly in Massachusetts. With an abundance of clams in the coastal and offshore waters, it was only natural for the locals to incorporate them into their cuisine. Interestingly, the oldest known recipe for the chowder, dating back to 1751, actually refers to it as a "chouder," originating from "chaudrée," an old French term for a fisherman's stew. The recipe eventually evolved into what we now know as New England Clam Chowder. Yet, despite its transformations over the centuries, this comforting dish remains a staple in households and restaurants across the region, and indeed, the entire country.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.