This clam chowder style that’s similar to the Manhattan version, featuring a thinner broth, tomatoes, bacon, and potatoes. However, this version uses fresh clams and clam liquor, with other ingredients including vegetables and bacon, to bring out the authentic taste of the Eastern Shore.
Eastern Shore of VA Clam Chowder
Ingredients
- 2 14.5oz cans of chopped clams
- 3 cups bottled clam juice
- 4 slices bacon cut into small pieces
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green pepper, diced
- 3 white or red potatoes, diced
- 1 28 oz can of tomatoes, chopped
- 1.5 cup water
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp of dried thyme)
- 1 tsp dried parlsey
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, add bacon and fry until it starts to crisp (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add carrots, celery, onion, and green pepper and saute over medium heat until the vegetables begin to soften. Be sure to scrape the fond left on the bottom of the pot from frying the bacon. This has a lot of great flavor and when you add the vegetables and start to sauté them, it will be easier to scrape.
- After the vegetables have cooked for a few minutes, add your potatoes, tomatoes, clam liquor, water, thyme, parsley, and clams.
- Stir well, and allow to come to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together, typically around 20-30 minutes.
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FAQ
While bacon is used in this recipe for its flavor, it’s not essential. If you’re vegetarian or simply prefer not to include bacon, you can omit it and use an alternative like butter or vegetable oil for sautéing the vegetables.
The best type of potatoes for clam chowder is ones that hold their shape well during cooking and don’t break down easily. These are often waxy or all-purpose potatoes. White potatoes, red potatoes, and Yukon Gold are good options.
Yes, you can freeze clam chowder, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Clam chowder, like most soups, freezes quite well. However, there may be some texture changes when you thaw and reheat it.
