easy clam chowder with canned soup

Clam chowder is an iconic comfort food that is a beloved staple in many American households. The creamy, comforting nature of this dish is perfect for a cold winter night. But, making clam chowder from scratch can be a bit intimidating. Here, we offer an easy, convenient way to make clam chowder using canned soup as the base. This simple recipe is sure to impress your family and friends without requiring a lot of time or effort.

Ingredients

For a creamy, comforting bowl of clam chowder, you will need the following ingredients:

1 can of cream of celery soup
1 can of cream of potato soup
2 cans of minced clams, drained
1 cup of chopped celery
1 cup of chopped onion
1/4 cup of butter
1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
2 cups of whole milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Once you have gathered all of the necessary ingredients, you can begin making your easy clam chowder. The entire process should take about 30 minutes, including preparation and cook time.

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped celery and onion and sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is thick and creamy.
Add the canned soups, clams, salt and pepper and stir until the soup is combined and heated through.
Serve the chowder in individual bowls and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and can be changed up to suit your taste. Here are some tips and variations to consider:

If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can add 1/4 cup of cornstarch to the soup after step 4. This will help to thicken the soup without adding any additional calories.
If you prefer a spicier chowder, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the soup.
If you are not a fan of clams, you can substitute other types of seafood such as shrimp, scallops, or even crabmeat.
For a vegetarian option, you can omit the clams and substitute vegetable broth for the clam juice.

FAQs

Is it possible to make clam chowder without dairy?

Yes, it is possible to make dairy-free clam chowder. Simply omit the butter, milk, and cream of potato soup and replace them with unsweetened almond or coconut milk. You can also use vegan butter in place of the traditional butter.

Can I use fresh clams instead of canned clams?

Yes, you can use freshly steamed clams for this recipe. Simply omit the canned clams and add 1 to 2 pounds of freshly steamed clams after step 4.

How can I add more flavor to my clam chowder?

To add more flavor to your clam chowder, try adding a few tablespoons of white wine or a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. You can also add some fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme to the soup.

Is it possible to freeze clam chowder?

Yes, it is possible to freeze clam chowder. Simply let the chowder cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. The chowder will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use low-fat milk to make clam chowder?

Yes, you can use low-fat or non-fat milk to make clam chowder. However, it is important to note that the soup may not be as creamy and rich as if you had used whole milk.