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50-Minute Creamy Classic New England Clam Chowder Joy

Classic New England Clam Chowder
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Make a rich and creamy Classic New England Clam Chowder, packed with tender clams and hearty potatoes. This recipe brings warmth and comfort to your table, perfect for sharing with friends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 pound Russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups clam juice (from canned clams or store-bought)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound fresh or canned chopped clams, drained (reserve juice for clam juice measurement)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. This creates a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the clam juice until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring until it begins to thicken slightly.
  6. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Heat gently; do not boil.
  7. Add the chopped clams, thyme, and pepper. Simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.
  8. Taste and add salt as needed. Remember that clam juice can be salty.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley if you wish.

Notes

  • If using canned clams, rinse them briefly but do not discard the liquid; use it to measure the required clam juice.
  • For a thicker chowder, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes toward the end.
  • You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a slightly lighter texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorsensations.com/classic-new-england-clam-chowder-creamy-potato/