[](https://www.thekitchn.com/clam-chowder-recipe-23079005)

# New England Clam Chowder: A Timeless Classic of the Northeast

New England clam chowder is more than just a soup; it’s a culinary tradition that embodies the rich maritime heritage of the Northeastern United States. This creamy, hearty dish has been a staple in New England kitchens and restaurants for centuries, cherished for its comforting flavors and historical significance.

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## 🥣 What Is New England Clam Chowder?

New England clam chowder is a thick, creamy soup made primarily from clams, potatoes, onions, and celery, all simmered in a rich broth of milk or cream. Bacon or salt pork is often added for depth of flavor, and the soup is typically seasoned with thyme and bay leaves. The dish is traditionally served with oyster crackers or crusty bread.([foodandwine.com][1], [allrecipes.com][2])

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## 🧂 Essential Ingredients

To prepare an authentic New England clam chowder, you’ll need the following ingredients:

* **Clams**: Fresh clams, such as littleneck or cherrystone, are ideal. If fresh clams are unavailable, high-quality canned or frozen clams can be used.

* **Potatoes**: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced, provide the necessary heartiness.

* **Onions and Celery**: These aromatics form the flavor base of the soup.

* **Bacon or Salt Pork**: Adds a smoky richness to the chowder.([foodandwine.com][1])

* **Milk and Heavy Cream**: Create the signature creamy texture.([savingdessert.com][3])

* **Herbs and Seasonings**: Bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper enhance the soup’s flavor profile.

* **Oyster Crackers or Bread**: For serving and added texture.([browneyedbaker.com][4])

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## 🔪 Step-by-Step Preparation

### 1. **Prepare the Clams**

If using fresh clams:

* Rinse the clams under cold water.

* Place them in a large pot with about 3 cups of water.

* Cover and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.([foodnetwork.com][5])

* Cook until the clams open, about 6 minutes.([foodnetwork.com][5])

* Remove the clams, discard any that haven’t opened, and set aside.([newengland.com][6])

* Strain the cooking liquid and reserve it as the base for your chowder.

If using canned or frozen clams:

* Drain and reserve the clam juice.

* Chop the clams into bite-sized pieces.

### 2. **Cook the Bacon**

* In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and releases its fat.([simplyrecipes.com][7])

* Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of rendered fat in the pot.

### 3. **Sauté the Vegetables**

* Add diced onions and celery to the pot with the bacon fat.([allrecipes.com][2])

* Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

### 4. **Add the Potatoes and Broth**

* Add the diced potatoes to the pot.

* Pour in the reserved clam juice and enough water to cover the vegetables.

* Add bay leaves and thyme.([marthastewart.com][8])

* Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.

### 5. **Combine with Dairy**

* Stir in the milk and heavy cream.

* Continue to cook over low heat, ensuring the soup doesn’t boil, until it’s heated through.

### 6. **Add Clams and Season**

* Add the prepared clams to the pot.

* Season with salt and pepper to taste.

* Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

### 7. **Serve**

* Ladle the chowder into bowls.

* Garnish with the reserved crispy bacon.

* Serve with oyster crackers or crusty bread on the side.

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## 🧊 Storage and Reheating

New England clam chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid bringing it to a boil, as this can cause the cream to separate.

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## 🍽️ Variations and Tips

* **Vegetarian Version**: For a vegetarian alternative, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of clam juice.

* **Spicy Kick**: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

* **Smoky Flavor**: Incorporate smoked clams or smoked paprika to enhance the smoky undertones.

* **Thicker Chowder**: For a thicker consistency, mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding the dairy.

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## 🧬 Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount | |
| ————- | ——– | ——————————————————————————————– |
| Calories | 350 kcal | |
| Protein | 20 g | |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g | |
| Fat | 15 g | |
| Fiber | 3 g | |
| Sodium | 800 mg | ([savingdessert.com][3], [sipandfeast.com][9], [allrecipes.com][10], [en.wikipedia.org][11]) |

*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

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