We’ve always been captivated by the story of Noah’s Ark, and it’s the perfect inspiration for our Clam Chowder recipe—a hearty bowl that gathers fresh seafood and veggies like a floating feast of flavors.
In our kitchen, we keep things simple yet satisfying, blending creamy broth with tender clams for a comforting classic. This dish brings coastal vibes right to your table, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
For our Noah’s Ark Clam Chowder recipe, we select fresh, high-quality ingredients that evoke a floating feast of coastal flavors, blending tender clams with creamy broth for a comforting, seafood-rich dish.
- Fresh clams: 2 pounds (scrubbed and steamed, reserving the liquid for added depth to our broth)
- Potatoes: 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (diced into ½-inch cubes for a hearty, tender texture)
- Onions: 1 large yellow onion (finely chopped to build a flavorful base)
- Celery: 2 stalks (sliced thinly for subtle crunch and freshness)
- Bacon: 4 ounces (thick-cut, diced to infuse smoky notes into the soup)
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (unsalted, melted to create a rich, silky foundation)
- All-purpose flour: ¼ cup (used as a thickener for our creamy consistency)
- Heavy cream: 2 cups (full-fat for luxurious creaminess that ties everything together)
- Whole milk: 2 cups (added for a balanced, smooth broth without overpowering the seafood)
- Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon (leaves, chopped for an aromatic, earthy herb note)
- Bay leaves: 2 whole (removed after cooking to enhance the overall flavor profile)
- Salt and black pepper: To taste (we recommend sea salt and freshly ground pepper for enhanced seasoning)
Instructions
We invite you to dive into crafting our Noah’s Ark Clam Chowder, a creamy seafood delight that brings coastal flavors to your table with simple, precise steps. Let’s transform fresh ingredients into a comforting bowl of tender clams and rich broth.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, gather and prepare the ingredients to ensure everything is ready for a seamless process.
- Chop the vegetables: Dice 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes for a creamy texture that absorbs the broth’s flavors. Finely chop 1 large onion and 2 stalks of celery to release their sweet and earthy notes.
- Prepare the clams: Scrub 2 pounds of fresh clams under cold water to remove any grit then set them aside. This step ensures the clams remain tender and add a briny freshness to our chowder.
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, fry 4 slices of bacon until crisp then crumble them. This provides smoky depth that enhances the overall dish.
- Measure and mix dry ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of flour with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk this mixture to create a smooth roux base that thickens our chowder perfectly.
Cooking the Chowder
Now we build the hearty base and simmer the ingredients to meld flavors into a velvety soup.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until they turn translucent and release a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen.
- Stir in the flour mixture from prep work and cook for 2 minutes to form a golden roux. This creates a thick, creamy foundation that coats the vegetables beautifully.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes, crumbled bacon, 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, and 2 bay leaves then bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Add the prepared clams and cover the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the clams open wide, infusing the chowder with their succulent, oceanic essence and a savory steam that evokes seaside memories.
- Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs then taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The result is a rich, velvety chowder with a delightful contrast of creamy broth and plump clams.
Serving
To present our Noah’s Ark Clam Chowder at its best, focus on simple garnishes and pairings that highlight its comforting appeal.
- Ladle the hot chowder into warm bowls for 4-6 servings, ensuring each portion showcases the vibrant colors of the vegetables and clams.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to add a pop of color and subtle zest that elevates the creamy texture.
- Serve immediately alongside crusty bread or oyster crackers for a satisfying crunch, making this dish ideal for family gatherings where the warm, savory flavors bring everyone together.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on the Noah’s Ark Clam Chowder
It brings a touch of adventure to your kitchen and creates lasting memories
with its hearty flavors and simple prep
Give it a try and make it your go-to for cozy nights—we know you’ll love how it warms the soul
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired this Clam Chowder recipe?
This recipe draws inspiration from Noah’s Ark, symbolizing a “floating feast” of fresh seafood and vegetables. It transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish that evokes coastal vibes, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, blending creamy broth with tender clams for a satisfying meal.
What are the key ingredients in this Clam Chowder?
The main ingredients include fresh clams, Yukon Gold potatoes, onions, celery, bacon, butter, flour, heavy cream, whole milk, fresh thyme, and bay leaves. These high-quality items enhance the rich, seafood flavors and creamy texture, ensuring a hearty and authentic chowder.
How do I prepare this Clam Chowder?
Start by prepping ingredients: chop vegetables, scrub clams, and cook bacon. Sauté veggies, make a roux with butter and flour, then add milk, cream, and other ingredients. Simmer until potatoes are tender and clams open, creating a velvety soup infused with oceanic flavors—ready in about 45-60 minutes.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
Prep time is around 20-30 minutes, and cooking takes 30-45 minutes, for a total of about 50-75 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the process straightforward for a delicious, homemade chowder.
Can I substitute ingredients in this Clam Chowder recipe?
Yes, you can swap fresh clams for canned in a pinch, or use regular potatoes instead of Yukon Gold. Substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter version, and thyme with oregano if needed. Always maintain the creamy base for the best results, but test substitutions to preserve flavor.
What are the best ways to serve this Clam Chowder?
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper for added zest. Pair with crusty bread or oyster crackers to soak up the broth, making it ideal for family dinners or casual evenings. This enhances the coastal feel and makes for a complete, satisfying meal.
Is this Clam Chowder recipe beginner-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s simple and straightforward with basic steps like chopping veggies and simmering ingredients. Even novice cooks can follow the clear instructions to create a tasty dish, making it accessible for anyone wanting to try homemade seafood chowder.