1 cup (8 oz) New England Clam Chowder has a total of 270 calories, making it a savory yet calorie-laden soup that delivers on taste. This iconic chowder has been part of New England cuisine for centuries, and it’s no wonder why it’s still a favorite among foodies across America.
Apart from calories, the clam chowder is rich in proteins, vitamins, and fiber that make it a healthy alternative to other soups. The creamy and flavorful soup is traditionally made with milk, cream, potatoes, onions, and of course, fresh clams.
In this article, we will dive into the nutritional information, ingredients, preparation time, serving size, flavor profile, history, health benefits, suggested pairings, and storage/shelf life of New England Clam Chowder.
New England Clam Chowder is high in calories but has numerous vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to the body. A serving of 1 cup (8 oz) provides 270 calories, 15g of fat, 750mg of sodium, 23g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, 5g of sugar, and 11g of protein. Vitamin-wise, New England Clam Chowder contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E. It also has minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium. It’s worth noting that store-bought clam chowders often have high levels of sodium, which means that you need to be careful about how much you consume. You can reduce the amount of sodium in the soup by making it from scratch.
Ingredients
Traditional New England Clam Chowder is made with simple ingredients that are readily available. The ingredients include fresh clams, diced potatoes, celery, onions, flour, butter, heavy cream, and milk. There are some variations of the ingredients that are used by different chefs, but these are the core ingredients that make the soup. To get the authentic flavor of New England Clam Chowder, it’s important to use fresh clams, not canned clams. Also, it's important to note that some people add bacon or salt pork to their clam chowder to give it an extra savory flavor.
Preparation Time
Making New England Clam Chowder from scratch is a little time-consuming, but the end result is worth it. The preparation can take around 45 minutes, and the cooking time is around 30 minutes. The first step in making clam chowder is to clean the clams and steam them. While the clams cool, you can begin cooking the vegetables in a separate pot. This includes potatoes, onions, and celery. Afterward, you can mix the clams and vegetables together, add some flour and butter to create a roux, and add the milk and cream. Allow everything to simmer for a few minutes, and your clam chowder is ready to serve.
Serving Size
The standard serving size for New England Clam Chowder is 1 cup or 8 oz. The serving size may vary depending on the recipe or the preference of the individual. One serving of New England Clam Chowder provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it filling and satisfying. It can be paired with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal.
Flavor Profile
New England Clam Chowder has a creamy and savory flavor. The saltiness from the clams and the creaminess from the milk and butter create a well-balanced soup that’s comforting and satisfying to the soul. The diced potatoes and celery add a subtle texture to the soup, making it hearty and filling. The chowder is usually seasoned with pepper and salt, making it a versatile soup that can be tweaked to taste.
Popular Variations
New England Clam Chowder is a classic soup that has been around for centuries. Over time, different chefs and cooks have come up with their twists on the classic recipe. Some variations of the soup include the addition of bacon, corn, or even hot sauce. There are also vegan versions of the soup that use cashews or mushrooms instead of clams. Doing your research can lead you to delicious variations of the soup that you'll love!
History and Origin
New England Clam Chowder is a soup that originates from the Northeastern United States, and it's a staple in regional cuisine. The origins of the soup can be traced back to the early 1700s when French, Nova Scotian, and British fishermen started fishing along the coast. The soup was initially made with salt pork or bacon, but later on, potatoes and cream were incorporated. The soup was then sold in small inns and taverns and later became a New England culinary tradition as it spread to other parts of the country.
Health Benefits
New England Clam Chowder has several health benefits, making it an excellent soup to include in your diet. The soup is an excellent source of protein, iron, and potassium, which help stimulate brain function and increase energy levels. It’s also rich in vitamins A, C, and D, which are essential for healthy skin, strong immunity, and proper bone health. The vegetables such as potatoes and onions provide fiber, which aids digestion and promotes healthy bowel movements. It's important to note that store-bought clam chowders may contain high levels of sodium and artificial preservatives, which can be harmful to your health. That's why making the soup at home is a healthier and safer option.
Suggested Pairings
New England Clam Chowder is versatile and can be paired with different tasty side dishes. One popular pairing is crackers or a slice of crusty bread that can help scoop up every last bit of soup. Another good pairing is a salad of your choice made with ingredients such as kale, spinach, and apples for a healthy and satisfying meal. Drinking a nice glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, alongside your clam chowder can also elevate the taste.
Storage and Shelf Life
If you have leftover New England Clam Chowder, you can store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat the soup, simply warm it up over medium heat, and add a splash of milk if the soup is too thick. Avoid reheating the soup more than once to preserve the flavor and quality of the dish. It’s not recommended to freeze New England Clam Chowder as it may change the texture and flavor of the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions about New England Clam Chowder
1. What is New England Clam Chowder?
New England Clam Chowder is a type of soup traditionally made with clams, potatoes, onions, and cream. It is a popular dish in the New England region of the United States.
2. How many calories are in one cup of New England Clam Chowder?
One cup (8 oz) of New England Clam Chowder contains approximately 270 calories.
3. Is New England Clam Chowder gluten-free?
It depends on the specific recipe. Some New England Clam Chowder recipes may contain wheat flour as a thickener, which would make it not gluten-free. However, there are also gluten-free versions available.
4. Can New England Clam Chowder be frozen?
Yes, New England Clam Chowder can be frozen. However, the texture may change slightly once thawed and reheated. It is best to freeze the soup in an airtight container and consume within a few months.
5. Is New England Clam Chowder healthy?
New England Clam Chowder can be high in calories and fat due to the use of cream, bacon, or butter. However, it can also be a good source of protein and vitamins if made with lean clams and minimal added fats. It is important to consider portion sizes and ingredient choices when consuming New England Clam Chowder as part of a balanced diet.