Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a seaside culinary paradise? This Tomato and Bacon Clam Chowder isn't just another soup—it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the smoky richness of crispy bacon, the briny sweetness of fresh clams, and the vibrant tang of ripe tomatoes. In just 45 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, proving that gourmet comfort food is within anyone's reach!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups diced tomatoes
- 500g clams, cleaned
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and the fat has rendered, approximately 5-6 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy bacon bits to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the bacon fat in the pot.
- Add diced onions to the bacon fat and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the cleaned clams to the pot and cover. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the clam shells have opened completely. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, creating a rich and creamy base. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Gently stir the reserved crispy bacon bits back into the chowder, reserving some for garnish if desired.
- Ladle the hot chowder into serving bowls and garnish with additional crispy bacon bits. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Clams: Always use fresh, cleaned clams and discard any that don't open during cooking to ensure food safety.
- Bacon Matters: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispy texture. Cook it slowly to render out the fat perfectly.
- Don't Rush the Onions: Sauté them until they're truly translucent to develop a sweet, deep flavor base.
- Cream Control: Add heavy cream at the end and on low heat to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth texture.
- Seasoning Secret: Taste and adjust salt and pepper gradually. The bacon and clams already provide significant seasoning.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers for the ultimate comfort meal experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
