Ingredients
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2 pounds Fresh Clams(such as littleneck or cherrystone clams)
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4 slices / diced Bacon
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1 / diced Medium Onion
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2 / diced Celery Stalks
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2 / peeled and diced Medium Potatoes
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2 cups Clam Juice
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1 cup / whole milk Milk
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2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
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1 Bay Leaf
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1/2 teaspoon Dried thyme
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Salt and pepper to taste
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For garnish (optional) Chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- If using fresh clams, scrub the shells under cold water to remove any dirt or sand. Discard any clams that are cracked or open and do not close when tapped.
- In a large pot, add the clams and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any clams that do not open.
- Remove the clams from the pot, reserving the cooking liquid. Remove the clams from the shells and roughly chop them. Set aside.
- In the same pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
- Add the diced onion and celery to the pot and cook until they soften and become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes, clam juice (or seafood broth), bay leaf, and dried thyme to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour and butter to make a roux.
- Stir the roux into the pot, followed by the chopped clams. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the milk (or half-and-half) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the soup is heated through.
- Remove the bay leaf from the pot before serving.
- Ladle the Clam Chowder into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve the Clam Chowder hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Note: If using frozen clams, follow the instructions on the packaging for thawing and cooking.
Enjoy your homemade Clam Chowder, a comforting and flavorful soup that is perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving a taste of the sea!
