New England-Style Clam Chowder

Ingredients and Weight:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped (about 80g)
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced (about 300g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (each about 250ml) of minced clams or fresh clams
• 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
• 1 cup milk (240ml)
• 2 tbsp corn starch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped celery leaves (optional, for garnish)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 40 minutes
• Total: 60 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook until tender.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the minced clams or fresh clams and let them cook for a few minutes.
5. In a small bowl, mix the heavy cream with the corn starch and pour into the pot.
6. Add the milk and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped celery leaves before serving.

Nutritional Information: (Please note that the nutritional information may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.)

• Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving (based on using canned clams and bacon)
• Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 17g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and rich, with a strong seafood flavor.
• Classic New England style, often served as a comforting winter dish.
• Garnished with celery leaves for a fresh flavor and visual appeal.

User Comments:

1. "This is an excellent recipe! The clams are so fresh and the cream adds a rich, creamy texture."
2. "I love how simple this recipe is but it still tastes so fancy."
3. "This is a perfect dish for a cold winter day. The celery leaves add a nice touch."
4. "I used fresh clams instead of canned and it made a huge difference in taste."
5. "Great recipe for a family gathering or a weekend dinner with friends."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use fresh clams if possible for the best flavor. If using canned clams, make sure they are not expired.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
• For a thicker texture, increase the corn starch by a small amount. However, be careful not to add too much as it can affect the flavor.