Introduction:

New England Clam Chowder, a delicious and hearty soup, is the perfect comfort food. With its flavorful combination of clams, potatoes, onions, celery, and bacon in a creamy base, it will soon become your go-to recipe on cold winter nights. Follow this easy clam chowder recipe to learn how to make a scrumptious bowl of New England Clam Chowder that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups of chopped clams (canned or fresh)

– 8 cups of clam juice (reserved from canned clams or purchased)

– 1/2-pound bacon, diced

– 1 large onion, finely chopped

– 2 stalks celery, chopped

– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed

– 2 cups heavy cream

– 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the clams. If using fresh clams, scrub them under cold water to remove any dirt or sand. Steam the clams in a large pot with a little water until they open. Reserve the clam juice and discard any unopened clams. Chop the steamed clams and set aside. If using canned clams, drain them and reserve the juice.

2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

3. In the same pot with the bacon grease, sauté the onion and celery over medium heat until softened – around 5 minutes. Stir occasionally.

4. Add the cubed potatoes into the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously.

6. Slowly pour in the reserved clam juice, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender – around 15 to 20 minutes.

7. Add the heavy cream, chopped clams, and cooked bacon to the pot. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients. Bring the chowder back to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously – do not let it boil, as doing so may cause the cream to curdle.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Serve hot and garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired.

Conclusion:

Making New England Clam Chowder at home has never been easier with this simple and foolproof recipe. Packed full of flavor, this comforting soup will surely impress your friends and family on any chilly night. Enjoy!