Description
Manhattan clam chowder delivers robust New England coastal flavors with tangy tomato richness and tender clams swimming in a savory broth. Seafood enthusiasts will savor this classic soup’s perfect balance of oceanic ingredients and comforting warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds clams
- 1 pound small red potatoes
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 medium onion
- 2 celery stalks
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 bay leaf
Herbs, Spices, and Liquids:
- 4 cups clam broth
- 1 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a sizeable cooking vessel over medium-high temperature, introducing finely chopped aromatic vegetables and allowing them to soften and release their natural sweetness for approximately 5 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic and sauté briefly until its pungent aroma permeates the kitchen, releasing intense flavor profiles.
- Incorporate herbaceous elements like bay leaf and thyme, complemented by smoky paprika, then pour in diced tomatoes, rich clam broth, and crisp white wine to create a robust liquid foundation.
- Bring the liquid mixture to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce heat, allowing ingredients to gently simmer and meld flavors together.
- Add cubed potatoes and allow them to tenderize and absorb the surrounding liquid, cooking for 10-12 minutes until they reach perfect consistency.
- Delicately fold in fresh clams, permitting them to warm through and release their briny essence for 3-4 minutes without overcooking.
- Extract the bay leaf and calibrate seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance overall taste complexity.
- Finish the chowder with a vibrant sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, adding a bright, herbaceous note to the rich, maritime-inspired dish.
Notes
- Boost the umami flavor by adding a splash of fish sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Opt for fresh clams if possible, but high-quality canned clams work perfectly as a convenient alternative.
- Keep the chowder dairy-free by skipping traditional cream and using a light coconut milk for a silky texture.
- Enhance the soup’s nutrition by tossing in extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini for added color and vitamins.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg