Craving a warm, comforting bowl of clam chowder that you can whip up in just 30 minutes? Look no further! This Quick Clam Chowder recipe is a delightful twist on a classic American favorite, perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at your next gathering. With tender potatoes, succulent clams, and a rich, creamy broth, each spoonful is a taste of seaside bliss. Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will have your taste buds singing and your kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans chopped clams
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 cups clam juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Drain clams, reserving liquid separately. Pat clam meat dry with paper towels and set aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine diced potatoes, chopped onions, and celery with reserved clam liquid and additional clam juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook vegetables until potatoes are tender, approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Crush some potato pieces against the side of the pot to help thicken the chowder's base, creating a slightly creamy texture.
- Add thyme and black pepper, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly throughout the mixture.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream, allowing it to warm gently without boiling.
- Gently fold in reserved clam meat, cooking just until heated through to prevent toughening, about 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving hot.
Tips
- Quality Clams Matter: Opt for high-quality canned clams for the best flavor. Fresh clams can also be used if you prefer, but be sure to cook them thoroughly.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Dice your potatoes, onions, and celery into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a pleasing texture in your chowder.
- Thicken Your Chowder: Don’t skip the step of crushing some potato pieces against the pot. This not only thickens the chowder but also enhances its creamy texture.
- Gentle Heat for Cream: When adding the heavy cream, keep the heat low to prevent it from curdling. Stir gently to incorporate it smoothly into the chowder.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your chowder before serving. A dash of salt or an extra sprinkle of black pepper can elevate the flavors beautifully.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chowder to sit for 5 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, resulting in a more delicious dish.Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every delicious bite of this Quick Clam Chowder!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
