Apple Clam Chowder
Apple Clam Chowder is a delightful fusion of savory clams and sweet Granny Smith apples, creating a comforting and unexpected twist on the classic chowder. This creamy dish is perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, offering a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a bowl of warmth that delights the senses and sparks conversation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: New England
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh clams, cleaned
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
- 4 strips thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 4 cups clam juice (or chicken broth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse clams under cold water to remove grit; soak in salted water for 30 minutes.
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and reserve fat.
- Sauté onion and celery in bacon fat until soft; stir in garlic for another minute.
- Add apples and thyme; simmer for 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in clam juice and bring to a gentle boil. Add clams, cover, and steam until they open (5-8 minutes).
- Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, then add crumbled bacon before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added heartiness, consider incorporating diced potatoes or swapping clams for shrimp. Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to elevate flavors further. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.