Best 2 Award Winning Clam Chowder Recipes

In the realm of culinary delights, clam chowder stands as a beacon of comfort, warmth, and delectable flavors. Whether it's a chilly day or a cozy gathering with loved ones, a steaming bowl of clam chowder can transport you to a realm of pure culinary bliss. With its creamy broth, tender clams, and aromatic vegetables, this classic dish has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. if you're seeking the ultimate clam chowder experience, embarking on a journey to discover the award-winning recipes that have tantalized taste buds and garnered accolades is essential. In this article, we'll delve into the secrets behind these exceptional concoctions, providing you with insights into the ingredients, techniques, and culinary artistry that elevate clam chowder to the realm of the extraordinary.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

AWARD WINNING CLAM CHOWDER

Award Winning Clam Chowder image

This is the best clam chowder I have ever had. Rich and creamy, full of flavor. It takes a bit to make, but is so worth it!

Provided by jenlyn33922

Categories Chowders

Time 30m

Yield 1 cup, 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 22

Ingredients

3 ounces vegetarian bacon, diced
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup celery, diced
3 cups new potatoes, cooked firm and diced
4 cups evaporated skim milk
1 1/2 cups clams, chopped
1/3 cup flour
1/2 cup fat-free half-and-half
3 ounces Smart Balance butter spread
2 ounces clam base
1 1/4 cups clam juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon marjoram
2 teaspoons fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon dill
1/2 teaspoon thyme
2 bay leaves
1/8 cup fresh parsley
white pepper
black pepper
cayenne, to taste

Steps:

In a large stock pot cook bacon until crisp.
Add butter, onions, celery and all the seasoning except dill and parsley. Cook until tender.
Add flour and cook for another 3-4 minutes over low heat.
Add all the dairy products, clam juice and clam concentrate.
Heat until just under boiling point and then add chopped clams and potatoes.
Bring to a boil slowly, cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add dill and parsley and serve steaming.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 443.6, Fat 14.9, SaturatedFat 3.6, Cholesterol 24.9, Sodium 1070.4, Carbohydrate 51.4, Fiber 3.2, Sugar 24.1, Protein 26.3

AWARD WINNING NEW ENGLAND CLAM CHOWDER RECIPE - (4.3/5)

award Winning New England Clam Chowder Recipe - (4.3/5) image

Provided by á-34480

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

4 center-cut bacon strips
2 celery ribs, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
3 small potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup water
1 bottle (8 ounces) clam juice
3 teaspoons reduced-sodium chicken bouillon granules
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups fat-free half-and-half, divided
2 cans (6-1/2 ounces each) chopped clams, undrained

Steps:

In a Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove to paper towels to drain; set aside. Saute celery and onion in the drippings until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the potatoes, water, clam juice, bouillon, pepper and thyme. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender. In a small bowl, combine flour and 1 cup half-and-half until smooth. Gradually stir into soup. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in clams and remaining half-and-half; heat through (do not boil). Crumble the cooked bacon; sprinkle over each serving. Yield: 5 servings.

Tips:

Use fresh clams whenever possible. Fresh clams have a sweeter, more delicate flavor than canned clams. If you can't find fresh clams, you can use canned clams, but be sure to rinse them well before using.
Don't overcrowd the pot. When cooking the clams, don't overcrowd the pot. This will prevent the clams from cooking evenly.
Cook the clams until they just open. Overcooked clams are tough and chewy. Cook the clams just until they open, then remove them from the heat.
Use a good quality clam broth. The clam broth is the base of the chowder, so it's important to use a good quality broth. Look for a clam broth that is made with fresh clams and has a rich flavor.
Add vegetables to your liking. Feel free to add vegetables to your clam chowder, such as potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions. You can also add other seafood, such as shrimp, crab, or lobster.
Season the chowder to taste. Season the chowder with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or white wine for a bit of acidity.

Conclusion:

Clam chowder is a delicious and versatile soup that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It's a great way to use up leftover clams, and it's also a perfect meal for a cold winter day. With so many different recipes to choose from, you're sure to find a clam chowder that you'll love. So next time you're looking for a comforting and flavorful soup, give clam chowder a try.