Description
Savory Manhattan Clam Chowder is a classic tomato-based seafood soup that combines tender clams, fresh vegetables, and herbs in a flavorful broth. This lighter alternative to creamy chowders showcases the natural briny taste of clams enhanced by aromatic bacon, vegetables, and a blend of herbs, perfect for a comforting meal any day.
Ingredients
Base and Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
Soup Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups clam juice
- 2 cups chopped potatoes
- 2 cans (6 oz each) chopped clams, drained
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and cook bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy to build a flavorful base for the soup.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot with the bacon and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its fragrance.
- Add liquids and potatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes, clam juice, and add the chopped potatoes. Season with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and flavors meld together.
- Add clams and finish cooking: Stir in the drained chopped clams and cook for 5 more minutes to warm through and blend flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the chowder, and serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Notes
- Use fresh clams if available for richer, more authentic flavor.
- Serving with crusty bread or oyster crackers complements the soup nicely.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
