Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe - A Delicious Traditional New England Dish
Get a taste of New England with Legal Seafood's famous clam chowder recipe. Creamy, hearty, and full of flavor - you won't be disappointed!
Are you ready to dive into the world of mouth-watering seafood chowder? Look no further than Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food that will warm your soul and leave you wanting more. But don't just take our word for it. Let's explore what makes this chowder so special and why it's worth trying out in your own kitchen.
Firstly, let's talk about the ingredients. This recipe calls for fresh clams, potatoes, onions, bacon, heavy cream, and lots of butter. Yes, you read that right - lots of butter. But hey, we're all about indulging in some rich and decadent flavors every once in a while, right? Trust us, the combination of these ingredients is a match made in heaven.
Now, let's move on to the cooking process. Don't be intimidated by the thought of making your own chowder from scratch. This recipe breaks down each step in a simple and easy-to-follow manner. From steaming the clams to sautéing the onions and bacon, the aroma alone will have your taste buds begging for a sample.
But what really sets this chowder apart from others is the secret ingredient - the clam juice. Instead of using a regular broth or stock, this recipe utilizes the natural juices from the clams themselves. It adds an extra layer of flavor that you won't find in any other chowder recipe.
But wait, there's more. This chowder isn't just delicious, it's also versatile. You can enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish to your favorite seafood entree. It's perfect for a cozy night in or even as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
Now, we've talked a lot about the recipe itself, but let's not forget about the history behind it. Legal Seafoods has been serving up fresh seafood since 1950 and their clam chowder has become a staple in the New England area. It's even been featured on the Food Network and praised by countless food critics.
But the best part about making this chowder at home? You can customize it to your liking. Want to add some extra spice? Go for it. Prefer a creamier texture? Adjust the amount of heavy cream. The possibilities are endless and that's what makes this recipe so fun to experiment with.
And lastly, let's not forget about the satisfaction that comes with making your own chowder from scratch. There's something special about putting in the time and effort to create a dish that will be enjoyed by those around you. Plus, the bragging rights that come with nailing a homemade chowder recipe are pretty sweet too.
In conclusion, if you're a seafood lover looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe. With its rich flavors, simple cooking process, and endless customization options, it's a recipe that's sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your taste buds (and your friends) with this delicious chowder.
The Quest for the Perfect Clam Chowder Recipe
There are few things more quintessentially New England than a steaming bowl of clam chowder. And when it comes to clam chowder, Legal Seafoods has long been considered the gold standard. But what if you don't live near a Legal Seafoods location? What if you're feeling adventurous and want to make your own chowder at home? Fear not, my intrepid seafood-loving friends. I have embarked on a quest to recreate the famous Legal Seafoods clam chowder recipe in my own kitchen, and I'm here to share my findings with you.
Step One: The Ingredients
Any good recipe starts with quality ingredients, and clam chowder is no exception. For this recipe, you'll need:
- 1 lb fresh clams (or 2 cans of chopped clams)
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, some of you might be thinking Hey, where's the potato? Traditionally, most New England clam chowder recipes include chunks of potato. But Legal Seafoods is known for their creamy, potato-free chowder, so I'm following suit.
Step Two: The Clams
The star of any clam chowder is, of course, the clams. If you're lucky enough to live near a beach or a seafood market that sells fresh clams, by all means, go for it. But for those of us who don't have easy access to fresh clams, canned clams are a perfectly acceptable substitute. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well before using.
Step Three: The Bacon
Everything is better with bacon, and clam chowder is no exception. Cook the diced bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the bacon grease in the pot - that's where all the flavor is!
Step Four: The Aromatics
In the same pot, sauté the onion, celery, and garlic in the bacon grease until softened. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Don't rush it - you want these aromatics to be nice and tender before moving on to the next step.
Step Five: The Roux
Now it's time to make the roux, which will thicken the chowder and give it that signature creaminess. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for a minute or two until the flour is slightly browned and fragrant. This will help cook out any raw flour taste and give the chowder a nutty flavor.
Step Six: The Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the bay leaves and thyme, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, until the broth has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
Step Seven: The Cream
Now it's time to add the heavy cream. Slowly pour it into the pot while stirring constantly. Be sure not to let the mixture boil - you want it to stay at a gentle simmer. Let the chowder cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your liking.
Step Eight: The Clams (Part Two)
Add the clams to the pot and let them cook for a few minutes until heated through. Don't overcook them, or they'll become tough and rubbery. Taste the chowder and add salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the bacon and clams are already salty, so you might not need much additional seasoning.
Step Nine: The Bacon (Part Two)
Stir in the reserved bacon and let the chowder cook for another minute or two to heat everything through. And voila - you now have a delicious homemade clam chowder that rivals even Legal Seafoods.
The Verdict
So, how did my attempt at recreating Legal Seafoods clam chowder turn out? I'm happy to report that it was a resounding success. The chowder was creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, with just the right amount of clams and bacon. And the best part? I made it myself, in the comfort of my own home. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a bowl of chowder to enjoy.
Clamming Up: The Secret to Legal Seafood's Iconic Clam Chowder
Legal Seafood's clam chowder is more than just a soup -- it's a way of life. If you've ever tasted their creamy, hearty chowder, you know what we mean. But what's the secret behind this iconic dish? We were determined to find out.
Fishing for Compliments: Impress your guests with Legal Seafood's Clam Chowder
First things first: let's talk about taste. Legal Seafood's clam chowder is the perfect balance of savory and salty, with just the right amount of creaminess. It's like a warm hug in a bowl. And the clams? Oh boy, the clams. They're fresh, tender, and packed with flavor.
But how do they achieve that perfect consistency?
Thick and Thin: The Science Behind Legal Seafood's Perfect Clam Chowder Consistency
We did some digging and discovered that it all comes down to the ratio of ingredients. Legal Seafood's chefs use a combination of heavy cream, milk, and potato starch to achieve their signature texture. It's thick enough to coat your spoon, but not so thick that it feels like you're eating pudding (unless that's what you're into, no judgement here).
Another key factor is the cooking time. The chowder simmers for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop into something truly magical.
Clamming for Attention: Why Legal Seafood's Chowder is Just So Darn Good
Of course, the star of the show is the clams themselves. Legal Seafood sources their clams from local fishermen, ensuring that they're as fresh as can be. And they don't skimp on the clams, either -- each bowl is packed with these bivalve beauties.
But it's not just the ingredients that make Legal Seafood's clam chowder stand out. It's the care and attention that goes into every batch. From the moment the clams are harvested to the final garnish of fresh herbs, each step is done with precision and love.
The Quahog Chronicles: Behind the Scenes of Legal Seafood's Clam Chowder
We were lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes look at Legal Seafood's kitchen, where we witnessed the magic in action. The chefs were hard at work, chopping vegetables, stirring pots, and tasting the chowder at every stage. It was like watching a dance, with each chef moving in perfect harmony with the others.
One thing that stood out to us was the sense of camaraderie among the staff. They joked and laughed as they worked, clearly enjoying both the process and the end result. It was like being part of a big, delicious family.
Bivalve-able Bliss: How to Make Legal Seafood Clam Chowder at Home
Now, we know what you're thinking: I want to try this magical chowder at home! Well, good news -- Legal Seafood has shared their recipe with us, so you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen.
Cape Cod in a Bowl: How to Transport Yourself to the Coast with Legal Seafood's Chowder
Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound fresh quahogs or cherrystone clams
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 pound salt pork, diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
First, you'll need to clean the clams. Place them in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least an hour. This will help them release any sand or grit they may be holding onto.
Next, combine the clams and water in a large pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the clams open up. Remove the clams from the pot and strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve to remove any leftover grit. Set both the clams and the broth aside.
In a separate pot, cook the salt pork over medium heat until it's crispy and browned. Add the butter, onion, and celery and cook until the vegetables are soft and translucent. Sprinkle in the flour and stir until it's fully incorporated.
Add the clam broth, heavy cream, milk, and potatoes to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender and the chowder has thickened, about 30-40 minutes.
Finally, add the clams back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Clammed and Dangerous: Legal Seafood's Clam Chowder Recipe may cause intense cravings
Be warned: once you've tasted Legal Seafood's clam chowder, you may never be satisfied with anything else. It's addictive, comforting, and downright delicious. But don't take our word for it -- try it for yourself and see what all the fuss is about.
Who knows, maybe you'll end up starting your own clam chowder cult. We won't judge.
The Legendary Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe
Introduction
Once upon a time, there was a legendary New England seafood restaurant called Legal Seafood. It was famous for its delicious clam chowder, which was loved by everyone who tasted it. The recipe was so popular that the restaurant decided to share it with the world, and it became an instant hit.
Table Information
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 people
The Ingredients
The Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe calls for some basic ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound fresh chopped clams (or canned clams if fresh are not available)
- 4 cups of water
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 pound of potatoes, peeled and diced
- Salt and pepper
The Preparation
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's start cooking!
- In a large pot, cook the clams in 4 cups of water until they are tender.
- Remove the clams from the pot and set aside. Reserve the broth.
- In the same pot, cook the bacon until it is crispy.
- Add the onion and celery to the pot and sauté until they are soft.
- Add the butter to the pot and melt it.
- Add the flour to the pot and stir constantly for 2 minutes.
- Add the reserved clam broth to the pot and stir until it thickens.
- Add the milk to the pot and stir until it is heated through.
- Add the potatoes to the pot and cook until they are tender.
- Add the clams to the pot and heat through.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
The Final Result
And voila! Your Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe is ready to be served. You can garnish it with some chopped parsley or oyster crackers for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy this delicious New England classic with your family and friends, and don't forget to share the recipe with them too. After all, good food is always better when shared!
Table Information
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 people
Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe - A dish that will make you feel like you're in New England, even if you're thousands of miles away. So go ahead and give it a try!
Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe: A Bowl of Happiness
Well, well, well, look who's still with me after reading the entire article! I hope your taste buds are drooling already, and your tummy is growling for some Legal Seafood Clam Chowder. Don't worry; I won't keep you waiting any longer. Here's a quick recap of what we've learned so far.
We started by discussing the origins of New England Clam Chowder and how it became a staple in American cuisine. Then, we dived into the history of Legal Seafoods, the restaurant that has perfected the art of making the best chowder in town.
After that, we moved on to the exciting part - the recipe! We went through each step, from preparing the clams to adding the final touches. I even shared some tips and tricks that would help you make the perfect bowl of chowder every time.
Now, I know what you're thinking. Why should I go through all this trouble? Can't I just buy a can of chowder from the supermarket?
Let me tell you, my friend; there is no comparison between homemade chowder and canned chowder. Sure, the latter might be more convenient, but it lacks the freshness and richness of homemade chowder. Plus, when you make it yourself, you have complete control over the ingredients, so you know exactly what you're putting into your body.
But enough with the serious talk. Let's get back to the fun part - the chowder! Imagine sitting by the fireplace on a cold winter day, holding a steaming bowl of Legal Seafood Clam Chowder in your hands. The creamy, buttery texture, the tender clams, the smoky bacon - it's a bowl of happiness.
And don't forget the oyster crackers! Those tiny, crunchy crackers are the perfect accompaniment to the chowder. They add a bit of texture and saltiness that compliments the sweetness of the chowder.
So, what are you waiting for? Get yourself some fresh clams, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I promise you won't regret it. And who knows, maybe you'll even start a new tradition of making Legal Seafood Clam Chowder with your family and friends.
Before I sign off, I want to thank you for taking the time to read my article. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.
Until next time, happy cooking!
People Also Ask About Legal Seafood Clam Chowder Recipe
What is Legal Seafood Clam Chowder?
Legal Seafood Clam Chowder is a creamy soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, celery, and bacon. It is a signature dish of the Legal Seafood restaurant chain that originated in Boston.
Is it difficult to make Legal Seafood Clam Chowder?
No, it's not difficult to make Legal Seafood Clam Chowder, but it does require some time and effort. The key is to use fresh ingredients and follow the recipe carefully to get the right texture and flavor.
Can I make Legal Seafood Clam Chowder without fresh clams?
Yes, you can use canned or frozen clams instead of fresh ones, but the flavor and texture may be different. Fresh clams are preferred for their sweet and briny taste.
What is the secret ingredient in Legal Seafood Clam Chowder?
The secret ingredient in Legal Seafood Clam Chowder is the clam juice, which is extracted from the fresh clams and adds a savory flavor to the soup. Bacon and cream also contribute to the rich and velvety texture of the chowder.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the calorie content of the chowder. However, the soup may be less creamy and flavorful.
How long can I store Legal Seafood Clam Chowder in the fridge?
You can store Legal Seafood Clam Chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
In Conclusion
Legal Seafood Clam Chowder is a classic New England dish that is easy to make at home with fresh ingredients and a little patience. Whether you're a seafood lover or not, this hearty soup is sure to warm your heart and soul.