Clam Chowder Recipe

Cooking Directions

1. 1

   Cook the Bacon

   In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

2. 2

   Sauté Vegetables

   Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Add Potatoes and Broth

   Stir in the chopped potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

4. 4

   Incorporate Clams and Cream

   Add the clams and heavy cream to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

5. 5

   Prepare Polenta Crust

   While the chowder is cooking, prepare the polenta according to package instructions, allowing it to cool slightly before shaping into small cakes or rounds.

6. 6

   Fry Polenta Cakes

   In a separate skillet, fry the polenta cakes until golden brown on both sides. Set aside.

7. 7

   Season and Serve

   Season the chowder with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the chowder in bowls topped with crumbled bacon, fried polenta cakes, and chopped chives.