Dive into the heart of New England with a bowl of our Light New England Clam Chowder, where creamy coconut milk meets tender clams in a delightful, dairy-free and gluten-free twist on a classic favorite! This comforting dish not only warms the soul but also caters to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a hearty meal that serves four, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Are you ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans clams, drained
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Drain the canned clams and set them aside. Chop the onion, dice the potatoes, and dice the celery stalks. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the diced celery to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the celery softens slightly.
- Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- After the potatoes are cooked through, stir in the coconut milk and the drained clams. Add the teaspoon of thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Let the chowder simmer for another 5-10 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the chowder is heated and well combined, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Ladle the chowder into bowls and enjoy your Light New England Clam Chowder!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To make your cooking experience smoother, chop all your vegetables and drain the clams before you start cooking. This will save you time and keep you organized in the kitchen.
- Sauté for Flavor: Make sure to sauté the onions and celery until they are soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your chowder that enhances the overall taste.
- Potato Texture: If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot once they are tender. This will create a creamy texture without the need for dairy.
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste your chowder before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- Garnish for Appeal: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your chowder with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg