Chipotle Clam Chowder Recipe
Chipotle Clam Chowder is a rich and smoky seafood soup featuring tender clams, crispy bacon, and a blend of fresh vegetables simmered in a creamy, spiced broth with a hint of smoky chipotle peppers. This comforting chowder is perfect for chilly evenings, offering a flavorful twist on the classic clam chowder with a touch of heat.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Meats
Vegetables
- 1 cup diced carrot
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Dairy
Pantry
- 4 tbsp Wesson Canola Oil
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 8 cups water
- 10 oz canned clams, with juice
- 3 tbsp minced canned chipotle peppers in Adobo sauce
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- Oyster crackers, to garnish (optional)
- Bake the Bacon: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Arrange the bacon strips on a parchment or foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until crisp. Transfer the bacon to paper towel-lined plates to drain excess fat and cool. Once cooled, break into large pieces and set aside.
- Prepare the Soup Base: Heat 3 tablespoons of Wesson Canola Oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced carrot, celery, onion, and 2 teaspoons kosher salt. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables are softened.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds to create a roux. Gradually pour in half of the water while stirring vigorously to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, add the remaining water and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Chowder: Stir in the clam juice from the canned clams, diced potatoes, and frozen corn. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish and Season: Add the heavy cream, canned clams with their juice, minced chipotle peppers, and chopped parsley to the pot. Simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust the thickness by adding more water if the chowder is too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or chipotle peppers as desired.
- Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls, top with the crispy bacon pieces, and garnish with oyster crackers if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For milder heat, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or omit entirely.
- Use fresh clams if available for a more authentic seafood flavor.
- The bacon adds smoky depth but can be omitted or substituted with smoked turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- If the chowder is too thick, thin with additional water or chicken broth to your preferred consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and oyster crackers for added crunch and color.
Keywords: clam chowder, chipotle, bacon, seafood soup, creamy chowder, spicy clam chowder, comfort food