Rhode Island Clear Clam Chowder

This recipe presents a classic and comforting clam chowder that combines the rich flavors of clams, bacon, and aromatic herbs. The addition of red potatoes adds a hearty and satisfying element to the soup, making it a substantial meal on its own. With the infusion of bay leaves, thyme, and black peppercorns, this chowder brings a delightful blend of earthy and savory notes.

This recipe offers a taste of comfort and warmth, perfect for colder days or when craving a satisfying bowl of soup. The combination of briny clams, savory bacon, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious and flavorful experience with every spoonful.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 bay leaves
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 8 ounces bacon, chopped into ¼-inch pieces
• 1 small onion, peeled and chopped
• 4 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 pound red potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 2 cups chopped cooked clams
• 6 cups Fish Stock

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Tuck the bay leaves, thyme, and peppercorns into a 100% cotton muslin bag or cheesecloth sachet and set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Warm the butter in a soup pot over medium heat. When the butter begins to froth and foam, toss the bacon into the pot and fry it until it crisps in the hot fat, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir the onion and celery into the pot with the crisp bacon and sauté them together until they soften and release their fragrance, about 6 minutes.
4. Stir the fish stock into the pot, bring it to a bare simmer, and then add the potatoes. Drop the sachet filled with herbs and peppercorns into the pot and simmer, covered, for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir the clams into the pot and cook them until they’re warmed through but not rubbery, about 4 minutes more.
6. Pluck the sachet of herbs out of the pot.
7. Ladle the soup into soup bowls and serve hot.

VARIATIONS:

• Corn and Clam Chowder: Add sweet corn kernels to the chowder along with the clams. This addition will provide a hint of sweetness and a contrasting texture to the soup.

• Spicy Clam Chowder: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, add diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the sautéed onions and celery. This variation will add a spicy twist to the traditional clam chowder.

• Creamy Vegetable Chowder: Make the chowder vegetarian-friendly by omitting the clams and bacon. Instead, add a variety of vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn to create a hearty and creamy vegetable chowder.

• Smoked Salmon Chowder: Substitute the clams with smoked salmon for a different flavor profile. The smokiness of the salmon pairs well with the creamy base and adds a unique twist to the chowder.

• Herbed Clam Chowder: Experiment with different herbs to enhance the flavor of the chowder. Consider adding herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon during the cooking process to infuse the soup with fresh and aromatic notes.

• Seafood Medley Chowder: Expand the seafood variety by incorporating additional seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, or lobster meat, along with the clams. This variation will create a rich and indulgent seafood medley chowder.