Is there anything more comforting and delicious than a bowl of warm clam chowder on a chilly day? Not in my book! I’ve rounded up two of the best clam chowder recipes out there to share with you.
Ivar’s Kettle Classic Clam Chowder Recipe
First up is Ivar’s Kettle Classic Clam Chowder. This recipe is perfect for those who love a creamy and rich chowder with plenty of clams. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 cups diced onion
- 2 cups diced celery
- 2 cups diced leeks
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 gallon clam juice
- 1 quart heavy cream
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon dry thyme
- 1 tablespoon dry oregano
- 1 tablespoon dry basil
- 2 pounds chopped clams
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the chowder, start by melting the butter in a large pot. Add the onions, celery, and leeks and cook until the vegetables are soft. Add the flour and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Slowly add the clam juice while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and basil and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Remove the bay leaves and add the heavy cream and chopped clams. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the clams are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This recipe serves 12, so it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve with oyster crackers or crusty bread for dipping.
Newport Chowder Company’s Best Clam Chowder Recipe
If you’re looking for a slightly different take on clam chowder, try Newport Chowder Company’s Best Clam Chowder Recipe. This recipe has a slightly thinner broth and a bit more bacon for a smoky flavor. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 6 ounces bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups clam juice
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups half-and-half
- 2 cups chopped clams
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the chowder, start by cooking the bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Add the onion, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook until the vegetables are soft. Add the potatoes and clam juice and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are cooked through.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and half-and-half until smooth. Add the mixture to the pot with the vegetables and stir to combine. Add the chopped clams and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the clams are cooked through.
This recipe serves 6 and is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Serve with a salad or grilled cheese sandwich for the perfect meal.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – two of the best clam chowder recipes out there! Whether you prefer a thick and creamy chowder or a slightly thinner broth, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Give them a try and enjoy the warmth and comfort of a delicious bowl of clam chowder on a chilly day.