New England Clam Chowder

25m
Serves 1
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Directions

  1. 1Cut a bell pepper once down the middle.
  2. 2Remove the seeds from the bell pepper.
  3. 3Small dice the bell pepper by first cutting it into small strips and then running a knife through it.
  4. 4Add the diced bell pepper to already small-diced Spanish onion.
  5. 5Small dice a potato by cutting it into slabs, then into sticks, and finally dicing it.
  6. 6Melt about two tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  7. 7Once the butter starts to foam, add the diced onions and peppers.
  8. 8Add a decent pinch of kosher salt and a pinch of black pepper.
  9. 9After about 4-5 minutes, once the onions and peppers have softened, add about 3-4 pieces of chopped and crisped bacon.
  10. 10Add about 4-5 minced garlic cloves.
  11. 11Let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds, then add another 2-3 tablespoons of butter.
  12. 12Once all the butter has melted, add about five total tablespoons of flour to thicken the mixture (to create a roux).
  13. 13Stir the mixture around until all the flour is saturated into the butter.
  14. 14Add about two cups of milk, starting with a small amount to avoid lumps and letting it come to a simmer with each addition.
  15. 15Once the two cups of milk come to a simmer, add two large cans of chopped clams and their liquid.
  16. 16Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until the potatoes are fully cooked (about 15-20 minutes).
  17. 17Add about two cups of heavy cream, half-and-half, or more milk.
  18. 18Add some chopped thyme and parsley.
  19. 19Bring the chowder back to a simmer and taste it.
  20. 20Serve the New England clam chowder.

Ingredients

  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 Spanish onion
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 pinch kosher salt
  • 1 pinch black pepper
  • 3 pieces bacon
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 5 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 pounds chopped clams
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 handful thyme
  • 1 handful parsley

Equipment

knifecutting boardbowlpotwooden spoonladle

Tips

  • To easily cut a potato into slabs, cut one end off to create a flat surface, then flip it onto that surface before slicing.
  • To avoid lumps when making a roux, start by adding a small amount of liquid, letting it come to a simmer, and then gradually adding more liquid.
  • Scrape the bottom and corners of the pot when stirring the roux, as it tends to stick there.