Description
This clear broth clam chowder is a classic Rhode Island-style soup that’s light, flavorful, and dairy-free! Made with canned clams, clam juice, potatoes, and fresh herbs, this healthy seafood recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick, easy dinner or a comforting bowl of homemade clam chowder. Omit the bacon for a pescatarian-friendly version!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter (omit for dairy-free)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 ribs celery, diced
- 20 oz. canned whole or chopped clams, drained (reserve juices)
- 4 cups clam juice (from canned clams + jarred clam juice)
- 4 cups water
- 1 1/2 lb. gold potatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: extra butter and fresh herbs for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove all but 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease from the pot.
- Add the butter, onion, and celery. Sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
- While cooking, drain the canned clams, reserving the juices. Measure 4 cups total clam juice, adding jarred clam juice if needed.
- Pour the clam juice and water into the pot. Bring to a boil, then add the diced potatoes. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the reserved clams, parsley, chives, and dill. Simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with extra butter and fresh herbs. Enjoy with crusty bread or oyster crackers!
Notes
- Dairy-Free Version: Omit butter or use a plant-based alternative.
- Clam Juice Alternatives: If you don’t have enough, substitute seafood or chicken broth.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 254
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg