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Copycat Red Lobster's Clam Chowder

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  • #109843

Very few things can satisfy a comfort food craving better than a bowl of clam chowder. This Red Lobster copycat is a keeper with its perfect blend of ingredients. Don't forget the oyster crackers.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  under 30 minutes

ingredients

1 quart clam juice
1 cup non-fat dry milk powder
2/3 cup flour
1 can (14 ounce size) chicken broth
2 ribs celery, chopped fine
1 tablespoon dry minced onion
1 can (10 ounce size) minced clams, undrained
1 pinch dried parsley flakes
2 baked potatoes, skins removed and the flesh crumbled

directions

Combine the clam juice, dry milk powder, and flour in a blender. Process until smooth, scraping down the sides of the blender as needed.

Pour the clam mixture into a large saucepan and over medium-high heat. Stir in the chicken broth, celery, and onion and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thickened.

Reduce the heat to low. Add the clams, parsley, and potatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Season as desired with salt and pepper and serve the clam chowder warm with soda crackers.

recipe tips


Fresh clams can be cooked separately and added to the chowder for a more intense clam flavor.

For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding them back to the soup.

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Serve the clam chowder in bread bowls for a fun and edible presentation.

Add a splash of dry white wine or sherry to the chowder for more flavor.

common recipe questions


Can I use fresh clams instead of canned clams?

Yes, fresh clams can be used in clam chowder, but they will need to be cooked and shelled before adding to the soup.

What is the purpose of dry milk powder in the recipe?

Dry milk powder helps to thicken the chowder and add a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.

Can I use fresh parsley instead of dried parsley flakes?

Yes, fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for dried parsley. Use about 1 1/2 teaspoons of fresh in place of the pinch of dried.

How should I store leftover clam chowder?

Leftover clam chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I freeze clam chowder?

While cream-based soups can sometimes separate when frozen, clam chowder can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop after thawing.

tools needed


Blender: For mixing the clam juice, dry milk powder, and flour together until smooth, creating the base for the clam chowder.

Large Saucepan: To heat the clam mixture with chicken broth, celery, and onion, and to simmer the chowder until thickened.

Stirring Spoon: For stirring the chowder constantly while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Can Opener: To open the cans of chicken broth and minced clams.

Knife: To chop the celery and remove the skins from the baked potatoes before crumbling the flesh.

what goes with it?


Freshly Baked Cornbread: the sweet and savory combination of cornbread will complement the creamy richness of the clam chowder.

Warm and crusty sourdough bread: the tangy flavor and chewy texture of sourdough bread will complement the creamy richness of the clam chowder.

Crispy bacon bits: sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top of the clam chowder for a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese on top of the clam chowder will bring a nutty and salty richness that enhances the flavors of the soup, making it even more decadent and satisfying.

Oyster Crackers: traditional with clam chowder, these small, plain crackers add a pleasant crunch and absorb the soup beautifully.

Salad: a light, fresh salad with a tangy dressing can balance the richness of the chowder. Consider a simple mixed greens salad or a Caesar salad.

beverage pairings


Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: A buttery, oakey Chardonnay can enhance the creamy texture of the clam chowder while adding a touch of richness to each spoonful.

Pinot Grigio: If you prefer a lighter white wine, a Pinot Grigio with its crisp acidity and citrus notes can cut through the creaminess of the chowder.

Merlot: For those on team red wine, a fruit forward Merlot can bring out the flavors of the clams and potatoes while adding a touch of earthiness to balance out the richness of the dish.

Other Alcohol Pairings
IPA: If beer is more your style, an IPA with its hoppy bitterness can be a great match for the savory, slightly briny flavors of the clam chowder.

Michelada: Spice things up with a Michelada! The combination of beer, tomato juice, lime, and spices can add an extra kick to your clam chowder.

Bloody Mary: Feeling bold? A Bloody Mary with its tangy tomato base and spicy kick can be a fun pairing with the creamy chowder.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy clam chowder, adding a burst of citrus flavor to each bite.

Hot Tea: If you prefer a warm beverage, a nice cup of hot tea can be a soothing companion to the clam chowder. Choose a black tea for a bold flavor that can stand up to the richness of the dish.

Apple Juice: The natural sweetness of apple juice can complement the savory flavors of the clam chowder while providing a fruity twist to your meal.


nutrition data

236 calories, 4 grams fat, 29 grams carbohydrates, 16 grams protein per serving.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

    Please note:
    This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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