New England Clam Chowder (the real deal)

**revkev** · 12-28-2010, 02:37 PM

A couple of things I did different is I used 4 cans of clams, 2 minced, 2 chopped. I also left out the vinegar. I also used 1 pint of heavy cream, and 1 pint of fat free milk, instead of 1 quart of half and half. It still came out thick and creamy. The critical part is in making the rue. I use real butter. Butter burns quick if you're not careful. If you follow the directions it will come out smooth and creamy.

This is KILLER restaurant quality New England Clam Chowder. Notice there is no Cream of Celery or Mushroom condensed soup added. No cheating!

Ingredients

3 (6.5 ounce) cans minced clams
1 cup minced onion
1 cup diced celery
2 cups cubed potatoes
1 cup diced carrots
3/4 cup butter
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 quart half-and-half cream
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Drain juice from clams into a large skillet over the onions, celery, potatoes and carrots. Add water to cover (probably won't need much), and cook over medium heat until tender.

Meanwhile, in a large, heavy saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Whisk in cream and stir constantly until thick and smooth. Stir in vegetables and clam juice. Heat through, but do not boil.
Stir in clams just before serving. If they cook too much they get tough. When clams are heated through, stir in vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.

**Kay** · 12-28-2010, 02:43 PM

I'm coming to your house for lunch. I haven't had real clam chowdah since I've been in the South. (I did find a canned variety that is acceptable, barely.)

One day, someone offered me some clam chowder... manhattan style. I screamed out loud.

**revkev** · 12-28-2010, 03:28 PM

Originally Posted by Kay

I'm coming to your house for lunch. I haven't had real clam chowdah since I've been in the South. (I did find a canned variety that is acceptable, barely.)

One day, someone offered me some clam chowder... manhattan style. I screamed out loud.

Even as an old New Yawkah, I have to say that ain't Clam Chowder!

**Kay** · 12-28-2010, 03:28 PM

Originally Posted by revkev

Even as an old New Yawkah, I have to say that ain't Clam Chowder!

*abomination

**Lista** · 12-28-2010, 08:28 PM

I just bookmarked this page....thanks Revvie. Your last recipe has been modified out the ying-yang, but I used it all the time this Summer when I had fresh veggies....can't wait to try this one when Andy is on a trip somewhere!!! (he doesn't like seafood....now THAT is an abomination)

**Lista** · 11-30-2011, 09:17 PM

Andy is on his way to Buffalo, NY, so I am cooking clam chowder!

I was wondering....do you ever add garlic?

**fuego** · 11-30-2011, 09:20 PM

Originally Posted by makin' a LISTa

Andy is on his way to Buffalo, NY, so I am cooking clam chowder!

I was wondering....do you ever add garlic?

If you like garlic in clam chowder, add it. :)

**Lista** · 11-30-2011, 09:20 PM

I'm cooking the veggies now, and they are just screaming...."add garlic!!! you know you want to!!!!" they know my weakness...

**fuego** · 11-30-2011, 09:28 PM

Originally Posted by makin' a LISTa

I'm cooking the veggies now, and they are just screaming...."add garlic!!! you know you want to!!!!" they know my weakness...

Then I would definitely do it. Don't ignore your veggie's advice. They know what is best for you. :)