Potato Clam Chowder
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Cuisine
American
Servings
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Calories
350
Indulge in a comforting bowl of New England Clam Chowder with a twist by adding hearty potatoes to create a satisfying and delicious meal. This creamy and flavorful chowder is perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a warm and comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups clam juice
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
For the chowder
Directions
- Heat the Battleground: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers like a golden pond.
- b. Sautéing the Aromatics: Introduce the finely chopped onion and celery to the pot, stirring occasionally, and let them sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Imagine their sweet aromas filling the kitchen, building anticipation for the flavors to come.
- c. Garlic's Grand Entrance: Add the minced garlic, letting its pungent fragrance mingle with the onions and celery. Cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic releases its full flavor without burning.
- d. Seasoning Symphony: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, and black pepper, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. These herbs will add depth and complexity to the broth.
- Liquid Foundations: Pour in the chicken broth and clam juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. The chicken broth provides a savory base, while the clam juice infuses the broth with briny goodness.
- b. Bay Leaf's Subtle Touch: Tuck in the bay leaf, allowing its subtle aromatic notes to enhance the broth's flavor.
- c. Salt to Taste: Season the broth with salt to taste, adjusting according to your preference. Remember, you can always add more salt later, but it's harder to remove it.
- d. Simmering Symphony: Reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and develop. Imagine the pot gurgling softly, releasing its enticing aroma into the air.
- Potato Power: Add the diced potatoes to the simmering broth. These starchy gems will become tender and release their natural starch, thickening the chowder.
Simmering Continuation: Continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. Give the chowder an occasional stir to ensure even cooking.
- Clam's Grand Entrance: Gently introduce the scrubbed and rinsed clams to the pot. These briny mollusks will add bursts of flavor and texture to the chowder.
Simmering Finale: Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the clams have opened and their shells are slightly ajar. Overcooking can make the clams tough, so keep an eye on them.
Heavy Cream's Touch: Stir in the heavy cream, adding a touch of richness and creaminess to the chowder. Imagine the silky smooth texture enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
