Ingredients and Weight:
- Razor clams: 2 lbs
- Smoked bacon: 8 ounces
- Onion: 1 large (diced)
- Celery: 2 stalks (diced)
- Carrots: 2 (diced)
- Potatoes: 1 lb (diced)
- Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup
- Chicken broth: 4 cups
- Milk: 2 cups
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon
- Bay leaves: 2
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Preparation Time:
30 minutes
Cooking Time:
1 hour
Difficulty Level:
3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Clean the razor clams thoroughly and remove the necks and bellies. Chop the necks and reserve the bellies for garnish.
- Cut the bacon into small pieces and cook in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside.
- Add the onion, celery, and carrots to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the razor clam necks, thyme, bay leaves, and reserved bacon.
- Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the clams are cooked through.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and flavorful
- Loaded with tender razor clams
- Aromatic and hearty
User Comments:
- "Absolutely delicious! The perfect comfort food on a cold night."
- "The razor clams add a unique and briny flavor that elevates this classic dish."
- "I love the addition of thyme and bay leaves, which add depth and herbiness."
- "The perfect chowder to warm you up from the inside out."
- "This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- To clean the razor clams, place them in a bowl of cold water and let them purge for at least 30 minutes.
- Discard any razor clams that do not open when cooked.
- If you cannot find razor clams, you can substitute littleneck or quahog clams.
