Randy Chandler
Clam chowder is a rich and creamy soup that is perfect for cold weather. It typically includes clams, potatoes, bacon, and vegetables in a creamy broth. While the classic New England Clam Chowder does not include cheese, some people enjoy adding cheese to their clam chowder for a unique twist. This variation, known as Cheesy Clam Chowder, has gained popularity, with recipes being shared online and passed down through families. The addition of cheese creates a hearty and indulgent dish, perfect for those who are not concerned about their diet!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of dish | Soup |
| Main ingredients | Clams, potatoes, bacon, vegetables (onion, garlic, celery), butter, flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, milk |
| Cheese variants | Cheddar, Monterey Jack |
| Consistency | Thick and creamy |
| Taste | Addictive, delicious, slightly smoky |
| Best served with | French bread, green salad |
| Recipe source | Grandfather, New England, adaptations |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Cheesy clam chowder recipes
While traditional clam chowder recipes don't typically include cheese, there are some unique recipes for cheesy clam chowder that are definitely worth trying! Here is one such recipe that you can easily recreate at home.
Ingredients:
- Butter
- Onion
- Stewed tomatoes (optional)
- Cheese soup
- Evaporated milk
- Thyme
- Garlic powder
Optional Toppings:
- Bacon
- Celery
- Clams
- Potatoes
- Bread
Instructions:
Start by melting a cube of butter in a large pot. Chop up an onion and saute it in the butter. If you like stewed tomatoes, dice them and add them to the pot. For the cheese component, you can use a can of cheese soup or make your own homemade cheese sauce. Add a can of evaporated milk and stir all the ingredients together.
Now, add your choice of seasonings. Thyme and garlic powder are great options, but you can also experiment with other herbs and spices. Let the mixture cook slowly over low heat for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop.
This cheesy clam chowder can be served with a variety of toppings. You can fry some bacon until it's crispy, or add some chopped celery for a refreshing crunch. Clams and potatoes are also classic additions to any clam chowder. For an extra indulgent touch, serve your chowder in a bread bowl—it's sure to be a comforting and satisfying meal!
While this recipe may deviate from the traditional clam chowder, it's a delicious and unique creation that's perfect for a cozy night in. Don't be afraid to get creative and adjust the recipe to your taste!
Lasagna Layers: Where Does the Cheese Go?
You may want to see also
Cheese types to complement clam chowder
While adding cheese to clam chowder is not traditional, some people enjoy it. When selecting a cheese to complement clam chowder, it is typical to choose a cheese from the same region as the dish. For example, a sharp Vermont cheddar to go with a New England clam chowder.
Monterey Jack is another cheese that might work with clam chowder. It is mild and may mix better with the soup if added while it is still boiling. However, a sharper cheese may be preferable to refresh the palate after a creamy, heavy soup.
Some people like to make a homemade cheese sauce to add to their clam chowder. One person even suggested lining the bottom of the bowl with a slice of provolone, heating it in the oven, and then letting it set before adding the soup to prevent the soup from soaking through the bread bowl.
Ultimately, the type of cheese you choose to complement your clam chowder depends on your personal preference and the specific flavours you want to emphasize or balance in the dish.
Best Cheeses for French Onion Soup
You may want to see also
Clam chowder preparation methods
Clam chowder is a creamy soup that can be prepared in several ways. The most common types of clam chowder are New England and Manhattan. New England clam chowder is typically a thick and creamy white soup made with milk or cream, while Manhattan clam chowder is a tomato-rich red soup without milk or cream and includes more vegetables.
New England Clam Chowder:
- Start by cooking bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until brown and crispy. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with a paper towel and reserve 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
- Add butter to the pot and melt it. Then, add garlic, onion, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
- Stir in thyme and other seasonings of your choice, such as hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
- Whisk in flour until lightly browned, and then gradually add milk, vegetable stock or chicken broth, clam juice, and bay leaf. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add potatoes and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Finally, stir in half-and-half or cream, and clams until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Manhattan Clam Chowder:
- Cook bacon in a pot and set it aside, reserving the bacon drippings. Chop the bacon once it has cooled down.
- Add the bacon drippings, butter, onions, and celery to the pot and cook until softened.
- Add garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings of your choice. Cook for about a minute.
- Add flour and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth, half-and-half or milk, clam juice, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add potatoes and continue to simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Finally, add the clams and heat through for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley, chopped bacon, and freshly cracked pepper.
Variations and Serving Suggestions:
Clam chowder can be made with various types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold, baby red potatoes, or Russet potatoes. Some people also like to add a little red wine vinegar before serving for extra flavor. Additionally, you can serve clam chowder with oyster crackers, corn muffins, or homemade dinner rolls. For an extra indulgent treat, serve it in a bread bowl!
Some people even like to add cheese to their clam chowder. While this may not be traditional, a sharp Vermont cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can be a delicious addition. You can make a homemade cheese sauce or add cheese directly to the chowder while it's still boiling to ensure it melts properly.
Grandma Pie: Cheese First, Always!
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Clam chowder toppings
Clam chowder is a rich and creamy soup, often made with tender clams, diced potatoes, and bacon in a rich stock. While the traditional recipe does not call for cheese, some people enjoy adding it as a topping or mixing it into the soup for an extra layer of flavour. Here are some ideas for clam chowder toppings:
Cheese
Cheese is a popular topping for clam chowder, adding a sharp, salty contrast to the creamy soup. Cheddar cheese is a common choice, especially sharp Vermont cheddar, which pairs well with the soup's typical ingredients. Other types of cheese that can be used include Monterey Jack, which is milder, or even a homemade cheese sauce.
Bacon
Crispy bacon bits make a delicious topping for clam chowder, adding a salty, smoky flavour. Bacon is already a common ingredient in clam chowder, so using it as a topping adds an extra layer of texture and taste.
Chives
Chives are a great way to add a mild onion flavour and a bright pop of colour to the dish. They pair well with the other ingredients in clam chowder and can be used fresh or dried.
Thyme
Thyme is an aromatic herb that can enhance the flavour of clam chowder. It has a subtle, slightly woody taste that goes well with the seafood and creamy base of the soup.
Crispy French Bread
Instead of serving the clam chowder with traditional crackers or bread on the side, consider topping it with crispy French bread croutons. This adds a crunchy texture and a heartiness to the soup.
When it comes to toppings for clam chowder, the possibilities are endless. Get creative and experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect combination!
Cheese in Frittata: Should You or Shouldn't You?
You may want to see also
Clam chowder alternatives
While the classic clam chowder is a popular dish, there are several alternatives to explore. Here are some interesting variations to the traditional recipe:
Vegan Clam Chowder
For those who follow a plant-based diet or simply want to explore vegan options, vegan clam chowder is a delicious alternative. This version replaces clams with hearts of palm or mushrooms, particularly oyster mushrooms, which have a similar texture and a strong umami flavour. The creamy base can be achieved by blending cashews with non-dairy milk, such as almond, coconut, or soy milk. Vegan butter or oil can be used for added savouriness. This vegan chowder is just as comforting and satisfying as its traditional counterpart, and it can be served with vegan bacon, crusty bread, or a light salad.
Cheesy Clam Chowder
Adding cheese to clam chowder creates a unique and indulgent twist. While some prefer a mild cheese like Monterey Jack, others suggest a sharper cheese like Vermont cheddar to refresh the palate after the creamy soup. You can also experiment with different types of cheese sauces to add to your chowder. This variation may be an acquired taste, but it can be a fun and flavourful way to switch up the classic recipe.
New England vs Manhattan Clam Chowder
The New England and Manhattan clam chowders are two distinct styles worth exploring. New England clam chowder is typically thicker and creamier, often served in a bread bowl. On the other hand, Manhattan clam chowder is tomato-based and tends to be thinner in consistency. Both have their unique flavours and ingredients, offering different takes on the classic clam chowder.
Customizable Alternatives
Clam chowder is a versatile dish that allows for customization. You can experiment with different seasonings like thyme, garlic powder, or fresh herbs. Additionally, you can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or celery to bulk up the soup and make it heartier. Some people also like to serve their clam chowder with a variety of toppings or sides, such as bacon bits, crackers, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. These simple additions can create endless variations to suit your taste preferences.
Pesto Without Cheese: Is It Possible?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can add cheese to clam chowder. Some recipes call for cheddar cheese, while others suggest making the dish with a cheese sauce.
A sharp Vermont cheddar is recommended to complement the creamy, rich flavours of the chowder. Monterey Jack is another option, as it is mild.
You can make a cheesy clam chowder by adding cheese at the end of the cooking process and stirring it through. Some recipes suggest using a combination of flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and cheese, which is then cooked over medium heat.
Clam chowder typically includes clams, potatoes, bacon, celery, and onion. It is often served with French bread and a green salad.
