New England Clam Chowder is sacred in the Northeast and there are many debates about the best way to make it. I've worked on this recipe for a while and stand by it. I'm not going to lie, it took a while to get just right. I'm not trying to claim authenticity here, but it will hold up in any taste test!
Making New England clam chowder at home is easier than you think. I used chopped clams that you can buy in a can. However, if you want to use fresh clams you are more than welcome to do so. In fact, I recommend it if you have the time and patience to buy and handle them.
Once you get the recipe going it's more of a matter of patience than any complicated cooking process. Allow each step to fully completed before starting the next one because you want everything to be cooked well. There's no need to rush anything, the flavor comes from taking your time!
We like to enjoy this on cool spring evenings. I like to crush oyster crackers into the chowder, but some people prefer it plain. Either way, it's a hearty bowl that makes for a filling meal. Enjoy this creamy New England Clam Chowder this spring. It will feel like a seaside vacation in your kitchen!
Nikki's Modern Mediterranean
Watch Nikki make it
Better Than The Coast! Easy New England Clam Chowder
Press play and cook along — the full recipe is just below.
The recipe
New England Clam Chowder
Ingredients
Method
In a large pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Remove it to plate lined with a paper towel, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Add the onion and celery to the pot and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add the butter and sprinkle in the flour and stir well, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly whisk in clam juice (including reserved juice from canned clams), water, and bay leaf.
Then, add the potatoes and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, until tender.
Lower the heat and stir in the cream, milk, clams, and cooked bacon. Heat gently for 5 minutes — do not boil.
Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with herbs if desired.
