Forget everything you know about traditional clam chowders! This Yates Manhattan Clam Chowder is about to take your taste buds on an extraordinary culinary journey. Unlike its creamy New England cousin, this tomato-based masterpiece brings a bold, vibrant twist that will make you fall in love with seafood soup all over again. Packed with crispy bacon, tender clams, and a symphony of fresh vegetables, this recipe is not just a meal—it's an experience that transforms ordinary dinner into a gourmet adventure.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans clams, drained
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 2 cups clam juice
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by draining clams, chopping bacon, onion, celery, and potatoes into uniform small pieces.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and fat has rendered, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and celery to the bacon, sautéing until vegetables become soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in diced potatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing them to slightly soften and absorb bacon fat.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and clam juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly throughout the liquid.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Gently fold in drained clams, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat through without overcooking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, ensuring balanced flavor profile.
- Serve hot in warm bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley or oyster crackers.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality clams if possible, but canned clams work perfectly for a quick and delicious meal.
- Don't rush the bacon rendering process—crispy bacon provides essential flavor depth.
- Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Be careful not to overcook the clams, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing vegetables.
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some potatoes or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.
- Fresh thyme can be substituted for dried, using about three times the amount.
- Let the chowder rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers for the ultimate comfort meal experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg