Best Canned Clam Chowder

The Origin of Best Canned Clam Chowder

The story of canned clam chowder is as interesting as the soup itself. It started as a simple stew made by fishermen with their catch of the day. Over time, this dish from the coast changed, adding different local flavors and ingredients. The change from fresh to canned clam chowder is an important part of food history.

People wanted clam chowder that was easy to make but still tasted great, and that’s why canned versions became popular. Today’s best canned clam chowders show how much this soup has changed. They keep the taste of the original recipes but are easy to make anytime. Each can is not just soup; it’s also a piece of the long and creative history of this beloved dish.

Best Canned Clam Chowder Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Creating the best canned clam chowder is an art that combines simplicity with flavor.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to bring this classic dish to life in your kitchen:

1. Start with the Base: Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until crisp. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation of flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Remove the bacon, leaving the drippings in the pot. Add chopped onions, and sauté until translucent. This builds a flavor profile that’s both rich and aromatic.
3. Thicken the Chowder: Sprinkle flour over the onions, stirring constantly to create a roux. This will thicken your chowder to perfection.
4. Pour in the Liquids: Slowly add chicken or vegetable broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Follow with the cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the Potatoes: Toss in diced potatoes and simmer until they are just tender. This ensures they maintain their texture without becoming mushy.
6. Incorporate the Clams: Add canned clams along with their juice. The clams should be added last to avoid overcooking, preserving their delicate texture and flavor.
7. Season and Simmer: Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme. Allow the chowder to simmer until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.
8. Finish with a Flourish: Return the crispy bacon to the pot, stirring it into the chowder. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls, ensuring a good mix of clams, potatoes, and broth in each serving. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers.

This guide helps you craft a clam chowder that is not just a meal, but a cozy, comforting experience. Every step is designed to maximize flavor, transforming simple canned clams into a gourmet delight.

Tips for Best Canned Clam Chowder

To elevate your canned clam chowder from good to exceptional, consider these tips:

1. Quality of Ingredients: Choose high-quality canned clams. The quality of the clams significantly influences the overall flavor of the chowder.
2. Bacon Balance: Use bacon sparingly. It should enhance, not overpower, the delicate clam flavor.
3. Roux Consistency: Be mindful when preparing the roux. It thickens the chowder, so aim for a smooth, lump-free consistency.
4. Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep the chowder at a gentle simmer. Boiling can toughen the clams and break the creamy texture.
5. Seasoning Sensibly: Season the chowder gradually. It’s easier to add more seasoning than to correct an overly salty dish.
6. Fresh Finish: Garnish with fresh herbs before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll adore this canned clam chowder recipe for its:

1. Ease of Preparation: It’s straightforward and perfect for any skill level.
2. Rich Flavor: Each spoonful is a delightful blend of savory, creamy, and umami flavors.
3. Comforting Quality: It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, ideal for cozy nights.
4. Versatility: It’s a hit for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings.

Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing canned clam chowder, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

1. Overcooking Clams: Adding clams too early can make them chewy. They should be added last.
2. Ignoring Potatoes’ Texture: Cook potatoes just right; overcooked potatoes can make your chowder mushy.
3. Rushing the Roux: Take your time with the roux. A rushed roux can lead to a chowder that’s either too thick or too thin.
4. Skimping on Simmer Time: Allow enough time for flavors to meld. A hurried chowder can taste disjointed.
5. Neglecting Seasoning: Season thoughtfully. The right balance of seasoning brings out the best in the chowder.

Customizations and Variations

Tailoring your canned clam chowder to suit personal tastes or dietary needs is easy with these ideas:

1. Dairy-Free Version: Substitute cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lactose-intolerant-friendly version.
2. Vegetable Additions: Enhance the chowder with corn, celery, or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
3. Spice It Up: Introduce a little heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika.
4. Herb Infusions: Experiment with different herbs like dill or tarragon for a unique flavor twist.
5. Meat Variations: Swap out bacon for chorizo or ham for a different smoky element.

Nutritional Information

A typical serving of canned clam chowder is rich in nutrients:

• Calories: Ranges from 200-300 per serving, depending on the ingredients used.
• Proteins: Clams are an excellent source of lean protein.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from potatoes and flour used in the roux.
• Fats: Comes from cream and bacon; can be adjusted based on dietary preferences.

Storage and Preservation

For optimal freshness, follow these storage tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of potatoes and cream may change slightly upon thawing.
3. Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain texture and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Complement your clam chowder with these pairing ideas:

1. Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
2. Salad: A light, fresh green salad balances the richness of the chowder.
3. Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side.

These customizations, nutritional insights, storage guidelines, and pairing suggestions will help you fully enjoy and master the art of making the best canned clam chowder.

Customizations and Variations

Tailoring your canned clam chowder to suit personal tastes or dietary needs is easy with these ideas:

1. Dairy-Free Version: Substitute cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lactose-intolerant-friendly version.
2. Vegetable Additions: Enhance the chowder with corn, celery, or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
3. Spice It Up: Introduce a little heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika.
4. Herb Infusions: Experiment with different herbs like dill or tarragon for a unique flavor twist.
5. Meat Variations: Swap out bacon for chorizo or ham for a different smoky element.

Nutritional Information

A typical serving of canned clam chowder is rich in nutrients:

• Calories: Ranges from 200-300 per serving, depending on the ingredients used.
• Proteins: Clams are an excellent source of lean protein.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from potatoes and flour used in the roux.
• Fats: Comes from cream and bacon; can be adjusted based on dietary preferences.

Storage and Preservation

For optimal freshness, follow these storage tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of potatoes and cream may change slightly upon thawing.
3. Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain texture and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Complement your clam chowder with these pairing ideas:

1. Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
2. Salad: A light, fresh green salad balances the richness of the chowder.
3. Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side.

These customizations, nutritional insights, storage guidelines, and pairing suggestions will help you fully enjoy and master the art of making the best canned clam chowder.

What is the Best Clam Chowder in a Can?

Determining the best canned clam chowder often boils down to personal preference, but some brands consistently receive high praise:

1. New England Clam Chowder by Bar Harbor: Known for its authentic taste and chunky texture.
2. Progresso Traditional New England Clam Chowder: A popular choice for its rich flavor and creamy consistency.
3. Campbell’s Chunky New England Clam Chowder: Offers a satisfying, hearty experience.

These brands stand out for their quality ingredients, balanced seasoning, and close-to-homemade taste.

How Do You Make Canned Clam Chowder Taste Better?

Enhancing the flavor of canned clam chowder is simple:

1. Add Fresh Herbs: Parsley, chives, or thyme can elevate the flavor.
2. Extra Clams: For a more robust clam flavor, add additional canned clams.
3. Creamy Touch: Stir in some cream or a splash of milk for a richer texture.
4. Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon adds a smoky depth.
5. Seasoning Adjustments: Tailor the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning.

These tweaks can transform a standard can of clam chowder into a more luxurious and personalized meal.

Which Clam Chowder is the Most Popular?

The most popular type of clam chowder varies regionally:

1. New England Clam Chowder: Known for its creamy base, it’s the most widely loved and recognized style.
2. Manhattan Clam Chowder: Features a tomato-based broth and is favored in the Northeastern United States.
3. Rhode Island Clam Chowder: A clear broth version, popular in Rhode Island and parts of New England.

Each type has its loyal followers, with New England clam chowder often being the most universally popular due to its rich and comforting nature.

Does Progresso Make Manhattan Clam Chowder?

Yes, Progresso does produce Manhattan Clam Chowder. This version is known for its tomato-based broth, a distinct contrast to the creamy style of New England Clam Chowder. Progresso’s Manhattan Clam Chowder offers a lighter, yet flavorful alternative, featuring a blend of clams, tomatoes, carrots, and potatoes. It caters to those who prefer a tangier and less creamy soup.

Ingredients

• 6 cups clam juice or broth
• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups chopped onions
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups chopped clams
• 4 strips of bacon, diced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

• In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced bacon until slightly crispy.
• Add onions, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 2 minutes.
• Slowly whisk in the clam juice or broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
• Add the potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
• Add in the chopped clams and heavy cream, stirring well.
• Let simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Conclusion

Clam chowder is a favorite comfort food, especially for those who love the taste of the ocean mixed with a cozy, rich flavor. Whether you like the creamy New England style or the tangy, tomato-based Manhattan version, there’s a type for everyone. Famous brands like Bar Harbor, Progresso, and Campbell’s make it easy to enjoy this classic dish at home with their canned versions.

What’s great about canned clam chowder is how you can get creative with it. You can add fresh herbs, more clams, or adjust the spices to make it even better. With a few simple touches, you can turn a regular can of chowder into a meal that feels and tastes homemade.

But the best clam chowder isn’t just about what’s in it; it’s about the whole experience. It’s a dish that brings a sense of warmth, comfort, and the pleasure of simple, hearty food. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl on a chilly evening or serving it as part of a bigger meal, clam chowder is more than soup – it’s a celebration of coastal flavors and a cherished part of American cooking.

FAQs

What makes a canned clam chowder the ‘best’?

The ‘best’ canned clam chowder typically has a balance of flavors, a creamy texture, and a generous amount of clams. Quality ingredients and authentic seasoning also play a crucial role in elevating the overall taste.

Can I enhance the flavor of canned clam chowder?

Absolutely! Adding fresh herbs, extra clams, a splash of cream, or a bit of crispy bacon can significantly enhance the flavor of canned clam chowder.

Is there a dairy-free option for clam chowder?

Yes, you can substitute the cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk to make a lactose-intolerant-friendly version of clam chowder.

How long can I store canned clam chowder after opening?

Once opened, canned clam chowder should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

What are some popular brands of canned clam chowder?

Some popular brands include Bar Harbor, Progresso, and Campbell’s, each known for their unique take on this classic dish.

How do I choose between New England and Manhattan clam chowder?

Your choice depends on your taste preference. New England clam chowder is creamy and rich, while Manhattan clam chowder has a lighter, tomato-based broth.

Can I freeze homemade clam chowder?

Yes, homemade clam chowder can be frozen, although the texture of the potatoes and cream may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to consume it fresh for optimal taste.