Here is a simple recipe that you can follow to prepare a delicious New England clam chowder:
Ingredients:
• 1 lb. fresh clams
• 3 cups of water
• 3 slices of bacon (chopped)
• 1 medium-sized onion (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 2 potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp. butter
• 2 tbsp. flour
Instructions:
1. Clean and wash the clams thoroughly and discard any that are open or do not close when tapped.
2. In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, and add the clams. Cover and let them steam for 10-15 minutes until all the clams have opened up. Discard any clams that do not open.
3. Remove the clams from the pot, and save the clam broth. Take the clams out of their shells, and chop them into small pieces. Set them aside.
4. In a separate pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat, until it turns crisp and golden.
5. Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot, and sauté them until they turn soft and translucent.
6. Add the diced potatoes and the clam broth to the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
7. Add the chopped clams, whole milk, and heavy cream to the pot, and stir well to combine.
8. In a small pan, melt the butter over low heat, and add the flour. Whisk the mixture continuously until it turns golden brown.
9. Add the butter-flour mixture to the pot, and stir well. Cook the chowder over low heat for another 10-15 minutes, until it thickens.
10. Season the chowder with salt and pepper as per your taste.
Your New England clam chowder is now ready to be served. You can dish it up in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or croutons. Bread bowls are a popular serving option for this soup, as they add a delicious twist to the classic recipe.
Some additional tips to keep in mind while preparing clam chowder:
1. Use fresh, not canned clams for the best flavor and texture.
2. You can add other seafood options such as shrimp or scallops to the chowder to give it a more complex taste.
3. For a healthier version, you can replace the heavy cream with low-fat milk or almond milk.
4. Always let the chowder cool down before storing it in the refrigerator. This makes it easier to reheat later.
In conclusion, New England clam chowder is a timeless classic that can be enjoyed year-round. This dish is not just tasty but also versatile, as it can be tweaked to suit different preferences. With a little patience and practice, you too can make a delicious pot of homemade clam chowder. So, why not give it a shot and impress your friends and family with your cooking skills?