When I think of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, Manhattan Clam Chowder always stands out as the star of the show. The warm, rich flavors of bacon and fresh clams mingle perfectly, instantly transporting me to bustling streets lined with oceanfront eateries. There’s something about the vibrant red hue of tomatoes combined with tender potatoes that turns a simple bowl of soup into a heartwarming feast.
As the waves of the Atlantic crash in my mind, I can almost hear the laughter of friends gathered around the table, dipping oyster crackers into their steaming bowls. Whether it’s a rainy day or you’re simply seeking comfort food that excites the palate, this chowder is both delicious and surprisingly easy to prepare.
Join me as we dive into this velvety soup that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s turn a few simple ingredients into a delightful experience, where every spoonful sings with flavor!
Why is Manhattan Clam Chowder a must-try?
Comforting and rich, this chowder delivers a taste of the coastal culinary tradition right at your kitchen table. Easy to prepare, combining fresh ingredients and simple methods means you can whip this up in just 40 minutes. Versatile enough to be served as a cozy dinner or an impressive starter for gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds! Hearty and filling, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings. Flavor-packed with the perfect balance of smoky bacon and fresh clams, it’s a dish that’s sure to wow your taste buds!
Manhattan Clam Chowder Ingredients
Get ready to create a bowl of hearty delight!
For the Chowder Base
• Bacon – Adds a smoky richness that elevates the flavors of the soup.
• Yellow Onion – Provides a sweet and savory foundation for depth in taste.
• Celery – Adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the bacon.
• Carrot – Brings a subtle sweetness and enhances the soup’s color.
• Garlic – Infuses the chowder with aromatic flavors that deepen the palate.
• Tomato Paste – Gives the chowder its iconic color and robust flavor.
For the Clams and Liquids
• Whole Baby Clams – The stars of the dish, they impart ocean-fresh flavor; don’t forget to reserve the juice!
• Clam Juice – Enhances the briny seafood essence in your Manhattan Clam Chowder.
For the Hearty Additions
• Potatoes – Use russet or Yukon gold for a creamy texture when cooked.
• Bay Leaf – Adds subtle herbal notes during cooking for depth of flavor.
• Dried Thyme – Elevates the chowder with earthy notes that linger on the palate.
• Dried Oregano – Introduces a hint of Mediterranean flavor that complements the seafood.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – A touch of spice for those who like a bit of kick!
• Diced Tomatoes – Not drained, they add freshness and acidity to balance richness.
For the Final Touch
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing all the flavors in the chowder.
Get ready to enjoy a soul-nourishing Manhattan Clam Chowder that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
How to Make Manhattan Clam Chowder
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Cook the Bacon: In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon, stirring occasionally until it’s crisp and tender. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain, leaving the flavorful grease behind.
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Sauté the Vegetables: To the remaining bacon fat, add the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Cook while stirring until the vegetables are tender but not browned. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, then mix in the tomato paste for rich flavor.
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Combine and Simmer: Stir in the reserved clam juice along with the canned clam juice, diced potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes if desired. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through and fork-tender.
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Add Clams and Tomatoes: Gently stir in the diced tomatoes, chopped clams, and the reserved crispy bacon. Season the chowder with salt and pepper, letting it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
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Serve and Enjoy: Discard the bay leaf and serve your chowder hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and pair it with crunchy oyster crackers for the perfect finishing touch!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Manhattan Clam Chowder are ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to savor homemade flavor with minimal effort! You can prep the bacon and chop all the vegetables (onion, celery, carrot, and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can measure out the clam juice and portion the diced potatoes (place them in water to prevent browning) ahead of time. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, simply follow the cooking steps starting with sautéing the bacon and vegetables, then combining and simmering everything together. This way, you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready to impress your loved ones with ease!
How to Store and Freeze Manhattan Clam Chowder
Fridge: Consume your Manhattan Clam Chowder within 3 days for optimal freshness. Store it in an airtight container to keep the flavors intact.
Freezer: Freeze the chowder for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion when it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Stir well and add a splash of broth if needed to revive its creaminess.
Storage Tip: If you prefer to freeze, consider omitting the clams before freezing and add fresh ones during reheating for the best texture.
Expert Tips for Manhattan Clam Chowder
- Bacon First: Ensure the bacon is cooked until crisp for that essential smoky flavor; avoid overcooking it to keep it tender.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh clams if possible for the best flavor; canned clams are convenient but can’t match the freshness.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes while simmering to naturally thicken the soup.
- Flavor Balance: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed; the flavor of Manhattan Clam Chowder hinges on these essential seasonings.
- Make Ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day! Allow the flavors to meld by refrigerating overnight before reheating.
What to Serve with Manhattan Clam Chowder?
Looking to create a complete dining experience that pairs perfectly with a warm bowl of rich and hearty chowder?
- Oyster Crackers: These crunchy delights offer a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup, perfect for dipping and adding texture.
- Crusty Bread: A thick slice of warm, crusty bread is ideal for mopping up the savory broth, enhancing every flavorful spoonful.
- Simple Arugula Salad: With its peppery bite, a fresh arugula salad balances the chowder’s richness, offering a crisp and light element.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the chowder’s depth, making each taste truly indulgent.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, elevates your meal, cutting through the chowder’s richness with refreshing acidity.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note; this creamy dessert contrasts the savory chowder for a delightful finish!
Each of these pairings is designed to enhance the overall dining experience, ensuring that your Manhattan Clam Chowder is the centerpiece of a truly memorable meal.
Manhattan Clam Chowder Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this chowder with these fun tweaks!
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Smoky Turkey Bacon: Swap out bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter option that still delivers the smoky flavor.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace bacon with mushrooms sautéed in olive oil for an earthy flavor that complements the clams beautifully.
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Creamy Touch: Add a splash of heavy cream towards the end for an extra silky texture that enhances every spoonful.
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Spicy Kick: Boost the heat by adding diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes, perfect for those who love a fiery sensation.
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Herb Explosion: Infuse the chowder with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, offering a vibrant twist that elevates its coastal charm.
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Sun-Dried Tomato Boost: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, tangy flavor that adds depth to the soup.
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Corny Goodness: Mix in fresh or frozen corn for a touch of sweetness and delightful crunch that complements the clams.
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Coconut Twist: For a unique flavor, substitute clam juice with coconut milk, lending a tropical flair to your chowder.
Manhattan Clam Chowder Recipe FAQs
What type of clams should I use for Manhattan Clam Chowder?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for whole baby clams from a can for convenience, I often recommend using fresh clams when they’re in season for a truly delicious chowder. If using fresh clams, make sure to scrub them clean, soak them for an hour in salted water to expel sand, and steam them open in their own juices before adding them to the soup.
How long can I store leftover Manhattan Clam Chowder?
You can keep your chowder in the fridge for up to 3 days, so make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep those rich flavors intact. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freezing is a good option.
How do I freeze Manhattan Clam Chowder?
To freeze your chowder, let it cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Tip: For the best texture, consider leaving out the clams before freezing. You can add fresh or thawed clams when you reheat it, making sure they’re warmed through without becoming rubbery.
My chowder turned out too thick. What can I do?
Very! If your chowder turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a splash of clam juice, broth, or even water until you reach your desired consistency. If you’d rather not add more liquid, you can mash some of the potatoes in the chowder to help thicken it without ruining the flavor.
Can my pet enjoy a bit of Manhattan Clam Chowder?
While clams are safe in moderation for dogs, it’s best to be cautious. Avoid the bacon, garlic, and onion, which aren’t suitable for pets. If you want to share a taste with your furry friend, set aside some clams and potatoes before seasoning the chowder, serving them plain as a treat. Always consult your vet if you have concerns about new foods for your pet.
Are there any allergies I should consider when serving this dish?
Absolutely! Be aware that this chowder contains shellfish, which can trigger allergies in some individuals. Additionally, if you have dietary restrictions around pork products, you might want to replace the bacon with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely. Just remember to adjust the seasonings to compensate for the missing flavor.
Delicious Manhattan Clam Chowder That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon, stirring occasionally until it’s crisp and tender. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain, leaving the flavorful grease behind.
- To the remaining bacon fat, add the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Cook while stirring until the vegetables are tender but not browned. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, then mix in the tomato paste for rich flavor.
- Stir in the reserved clam juice along with the canned clam juice, diced potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes if desired. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through and fork-tender.
- Gently stir in the diced tomatoes, chopped clams, and the reserved crispy bacon. Season the chowder with salt and pepper, letting it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Discard the bay leaf and serve your chowder hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and pair it with crunchy oyster crackers for the perfect finishing touch!