Imperfect Clam Chowder with Garlic Bread
Recipe Overview
Overview
This recipe for Imperfect Clam Chowder is a delightful twist on a classic dish, showcasing how to make a rich and creamy chowder in just 15 minutes. The use of clams, which are often overlooked, brings a fresh ocean flavor that pairs beautifully with the smoky notes of bacon. The chowder is thickened with potatoes and flavored with thyme, creating a comforting base that warms the soul.
The addition of garlic bread elevates the meal, making it perfect for dipping into the chowder. The garlic is infused into the butter, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. This recipe not only highlights the importance of using imperfect ingredients but also emphasizes the joy of cooking with what you have on hand.
As you prepare this dish, remember that cooking is about embracing imperfections. The chowder may not look perfect, but it will taste incredible. Serve it up in mugs for a casual dining experience, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal that celebrates sustainability and flavor.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Gather ingredients for clam chowder including bacon, potatoes, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme.
Cut bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Add bacon to a warm pan and let it get crispy.
Tip: Spritz bacon with water to help render fat before it gets too crispy.
Cut celery lengthwise into strips and then into small pieces.
Tip: As long as potatoes are around the same size, they don't need to be perfect cubes.
Add chopped potatoes and a tablespoon of dried thyme to the pan.
Add a whole clove of garlic to the chowder.
Pour in white wine, clam juice, and cream.
Tip: Use clam juice for a rich flavor that smells like the ocean.
Bring the chowder mixture to a boil.
Tip: Soak clams in cold water with salt for 10 minutes to clean them.
Check clams for cracks and add them to the chowder.
Steam clams in a separate pan.
Cut a baguette into thirds and then in half.
Tip: Smash garlic before adding it to butter to release more flavor.
Melt a generous amount of butter in a pan.
Smash garlic and add it to the melted butter.
Tip: Use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in your dish.
Fry the bread in the garlic butter until toasty.
Check if clams have opened in the chowder.
Chop celery leaves and add half to the chowder.
Tip: Add hot sauce to chowder for an extra kick.
Ladle chowder into a bowl.
Rub the garlic from the bread over the top of the chowder.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Cream
Ingredient: Shellfish
→ Substitution: Mushrooms
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Clams should be purged in saltwater to release sand before cooking.
- •Using imperfect ingredients helps reduce food waste and supports sustainability.
- •Garlic bread can be made by infusing butter with smashed garlic for extra flavor.
- •Bacon adds a smoky flavor to chowder, enhancing its overall taste.
