If you're a fan of creamy and savory soups, then you'll love New England Clam Chowder. This soup is made with canned clams, potatoes, and onions, and is best served with a side of crackers. One cup (8 fl oz) of this soup, made with equal parts milk, contains 164 calories.
In addition to being a delicious comfort food, New England Clam Chowder also boasts some nutritional value. It is a good source of protein, vitamin A, and potassium. However, it is also high in sodium and saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about New England Clam Chowder, from its nutritional benefits to its possible health concerns. We'll also share tips on how to make it, store it, and serve it with the best side dishes.
Calories in New England Clam Chowder
As mentioned earlier, a cup (8 fl oz) of New England Clam Chowder made with equal parts milk contains 164 calories. This makes it a satisfying but not overly indulgent meal option. If you're looking to cut down on calories, you can enjoy a smaller portion of the soup or skip the crackers that are traditionally served with it. You can also make a lighter version of the soup by using skim milk or almond milk instead of whole milk. However, keep in mind that the calorie count may vary depending on the recipe and the brand of canned clams you use. Make sure to read the nutrition label carefully to get an accurate estimate of the calories in your soup.
Ingredients in New England Clam Chowder
New England Clam Chowder typically contains canned clams, potatoes, onions, celery, butter, flour, milk, and heavy cream. Some recipes also call for bacon, thyme, or bay leaves to add extra flavor to the soup. It's important to note that the quality of the canned clams you use can greatly affect the taste of the soup. Look for a trusted brand that uses sustainable fishing practices and avoid canned clams that are too small or too chewy. If you're making the soup from scratch, you can also customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add more vegetables or use a different type of potato.
How to make New England Clam Chowder
Making New England Clam Chowder is relatively easy, and you can find many recipes online. Here is a basic recipe to get you started: - In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and celery and cook until softened. - Add flour and stir until well combined. Slowly add milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to thicken.
New England Clam Chowder vs Manhattan Clam Chowder
New England Clam Chowder and Manhattan Clam Chowder are two popular types of clam chowder, but they have distinct differences in taste and appearance. - New England Clam Chowder is a creamy soup, typically made with milk or cream. It has a white or creamy color, and is flavored with thyme, bacon, or other seasonings. - Manhattan Clam Chowder, on the other hand, is a tomato-based soup. It has a reddish color and is flavored with herbs such as oregano and basil.
Nutritional benefits of New England Clam Chowder
New England Clam Chowder can be a good source of several essential nutrients, including protein, vitamin A, and potassium. - Clams are a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. - Potatoes contain vitamin A, which is important for healthy vision and skin.
While New England Clam Chowder can be a tasty and nutritious meal, it's important to be aware of some potential health concerns related to its consumption. - The soup is high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and contribute to other health problems. - It is also high in saturated fat, which can increase cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Is New England Clam Chowder gluten-free?
New England Clam Chowder is not naturally gluten-free, as it contains flour as a thickening agent. However, you can make a gluten-free version of the soup by using a gluten-free flour substitute such as cornstarch or rice flour. Be sure to check the labels of the canned clams and other ingredients to ensure that they are also gluten-free.
How to store leftover New England Clam Chowder
If you have leftover New England Clam Chowder, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for 3-4 days. To reheat the soup, simply warm it up in a pot on the stove over low heat. Avoid microwaving it, as this can cause the soup to become watery and lose its texture.
Best side dishes to serve with New England Clam Chowder
New England Clam Chowder pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including: - Oyster crackers or saltine crackers - Bread or rolls, such as sourdough or French bread
New England Clam Chowder recipes
If you're looking for some inspiration to get started with making your own New England Clam Chowder, here are a few recipes to check out: - Classic New England Clam Chowder by Simply Recipes - Slow-Cooker New England Clam Chowder by The Spruce Eats
New England Clam Chowder is the ultimate comfort food. It's creamy, savory, and satisfying, and pairs perfectly with a side of crackers or bread. Whether you make it from scratch or buy it canned, it's a soup that's sure to warm your heart and your taste buds.
5 FAQ About 1 Cup of New England Clam Chowder
1. What is New England Clam Chowder?
New England Clam Chowder is a type of soup that is traditionally made with clams, potatoes, onions, and cream. It is a popular dish in New England and is often served as a hearty meal during the colder months.
2. How many calories are in 1 cup of New England Clam Chowder?
One cup (8 fl oz) of New England Clam Chowder with equal volume milk, canned, contains approximately 164 calories.
3. Is New England Clam Chowder healthy?
While New England Clam Chowder can be a tasty and satisfying meal, it is also relatively high in calories and fat. It is important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. Can I make New England Clam Chowder at home?
Yes, New England Clam Chowder can be made at home using fresh or canned clams, potatoes, onions, cream, and other seasonings. There are many recipes available online to help you make your own delicious version of this classic dish.
5. What are some common variations of New England Clam Chowder?
There are many variations of New England Clam Chowder, including Manhattan Clam Chowder (which uses tomatoes instead of cream), Rhode Island Clam Chowder (which uses clear broth instead of cream), and even vegan or vegetarian versions that use plant-based ingredients instead of clams and cream.