Craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness on a chilly evening? Look no further! This Mo's Clam Chowder recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy goodness. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks looking for quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic, elevated with a few simple twists! This recipe delivers a healthy meal, packed with flavor, and perfect for those seeking delicious dishes that are both satisfying and relatively quick to prepare. It's one of my best recipes, guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups clam juice
- 2 (10.75 ounce) cans minced clams, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Magic Happen
Step 1: Building the Flavor Base
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot. Set the bacon aside to crumble for garnish later.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the onion and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Creating the Creamy Foundation
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and butter to create a roux. Gradually whisk this into the vegetable mixture, cooking for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Adding the Liquids and Potatoes
Pour in the clam juice, chicken broth, and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Incorporating the Clams and Seasoning
Stir in the canned clams (undrained) and add the thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: The Creamy Finish
Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Do not boil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Serving and Enjoying
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley. Enjoy this healthy meal as a delicious and comforting main course!
Cooking Tips for Chowder Perfection
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Don't overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, add a bit more flour to the roux.
- For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup after the potatoes are cooked.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots or corn, to customize your chowder.
Variations: Spice Things Up!
- Spicy Clam Chowder: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Seafood Chowder: Add cooked shrimp, scallops, or lobster for a more luxurious chowder.
- Creamy Tomato Clam Chowder: Add a can of diced tomatoes along with the clam juice for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Enjoy this delicious, healthy, and flavorful clam chowder! Remember to share your culinary creations using #MosClamChowder!