This creamy and sustainable clam chowder recipe does just that. Its rich flavors and environmentally friendly ingredients make it the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Picture this: It’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving something warm, comforting, and delicious. Look no further because I have the perfect solution – a homemade clam chowder that satisfies your taste buds and comes with a feel-good twist. We’re talking about a creamy, sustainable clam chowder recipe perfect for cooler nights. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

What you’ll need:

Clam juice:  It’s a key ingredient in many seafood dishes, including clam chowder. Clam juice is a flavorful liquid extracted from clams, typically found in canned or bottled form.

Clams: They are known for their sweet and briny flavor, making them a prized ingredient in seafood dishes. Clams are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can elevate seafood dishes with their unique flavor, whether you enjoy them in a classic clam chowder or any other seafood dish.

Vegetables: Clam chowder typically includes a variety of vegetables to enhance its flavor and texture. Some of the common vegetables used in clam chowder are:

1. Onion: Onions provide a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the chowder. They are often sautéed at the beginning of the cooking process to build a flavorful base.
2. Celery: Celery adds a pleasant crunch and a subtle earthy taste to clam chowder. It’s usually diced and sautéed with onions.
3. Potatoes: Potatoes are a staple in clam chowder, contributing to its creamy texture and hearty consistency. They are typically peeled and diced into small cubes.
4. Carrots: Carrots can be included to add a touch of sweetness and color to the chowder. They are also diced and sautéed along with other vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 8oz bottle of clam juice (sustainably sourced)

– 2 slices meatless spam (omni foods brand, alternative for bacon)

– 2 tablespoons of olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced

– 2 cups vegetable broth

– 2 canned clams (sustainably sourced)

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 2 bay leaves

– 1 tablespoon thyme

– Mushroom seasoning (if not available, use salt and pepper)

-Black pepper

-Bread for serving or bread bowls

– Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Veggies:

   Start by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped meatless spam, sautee until fragrant, remove from heat, and set aside. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté them until they become tender and the onion turns translucent, usually about 3-5 minutes.

2. Add the Garlic and Potatoes:

   Stir in the minced garlic and diced potatoes. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Introduce the Broth:

   Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the bay leaves and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 12-15 minutes.

4. Incorporate the Clams:

   Now comes the star of the show – Pour the clam juice into the pot, allowing that briny goodness to infuse the chowder. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

5. Creamy Goodness:

   Add half the vegetables and heavy cream to a blender and blend until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream mixture in the pot, and bring the chowder to simmer for 5-10 minutes. Don’t let it boil; keep it warm and cozy.

6. Season to Perfection:

   Add the clams and season the clam chowder with mushroom seasoning to taste. Be generous with the black pepper; it complements the saltiness of the clams beautifully.

7. Garnish and Serve:

   Remove the bay leaf and ladle your creamy clam chowder into bowls or bread bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped thyme for a burst of color and freshness.

Sustainability Matters:

I take pride in this creamy, delicious, and environmentally responsible clam chowder. By using sustainably sourced canned clams, you’re making a conscious choice to protect our oceans and marine life. Sustainable seafood ensures that we can continue to enjoy these culinary delights for generations to come.

Conclusion:

So next time, you’re looking for meals that satisfy your cravings and align with your values. This creamy and sustainable clam chowder recipe does just that. Its rich flavors and environmentally friendly ingredients make it the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. So, why not whip up a batch today and savor the taste of delicious responsibility? Your taste buds—and the planet—will thank you!

Did you make this recipe? Please tag me on Instagram @melshealthybowl to be featured in my stories.

Check out my Instagram REEL to see step-by-step.

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