Classic Manhattan Clam Chowder Recipe

Enjoy a hearty bowl of Classic Manhattan Clam Chowder, a delicious seafood soup that features clams, vegetables, and flavorful broth. This recipe brings together the freshness of clams with the richness of tomatoes, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Prepare this comforting chowder in just 45 minutes and savor the taste of the sea in every spoonful.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh clams in their shells
• 3 slices bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup clam juice or seafood stock
• 2 cups water
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Scrub the clams under cold running water to remove any grit or sand. Discard any clams that are cracked or open and do not close when tapped.
2. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté the onion, celery, carrot, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, clam juice or seafood stock, and water. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the potatoes and green bell pepper. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. While the chowder is simmering, steam the clams in a separate pot with a little water until they open, about 5-7 minutes. Discard any clams that do not open.
8. Remove the clams from their shells and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
9. Add the chopped clams to the chowder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Stir in the cooked bacon and chopped fresh parsley.
11. Simmer the chowder for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
12. Serve the Manhattan Clam Chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

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