Manhattan Clam Chowder

Manhattan Clam Chowder is the vibrant, tomato-based cousin of the classic New England clam chowder. Born from the culinary melting pot of New York City, this chowder embraces a bold, lively flavor profile that reflects the diversity and energy of its origins. Instead of the creamy, ivory-colored broth associated with New England chowder, Manhattan Clam Chowder features a bright red tomato broth rich with vegetables, clams, herbs, and spices.

Whether you’re craving a nourishing soup for winter evenings, a flavorful seafood dish for gatherings, or a nutritious bowl you can enjoy year-round, Manhattan Clam Chowder is a recipe that delivers every single time.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Manhattan Clam Chowder because:

• It’s lighter than New England chowder, making it perfect for those who want something hearty but not creamy.
• The tomato broth is incredibly flavorful, packed with freshness and zest.
• The vegetables give it body without weighing it down.
• It’s nutritious yet unbelievably delicious—a wholesome, feel-good soup.
• It has a coastal charm with a city soul—a beautiful reflection of New York cuisine.
• It’s simple to make, versatile, and always tastes amazing.

This version balances acidity, sweetness, and savoriness with perfection, giving you a chowder that tastes like it’s straight from an East Coast seafood house.

Why This Dish is a Must Try

Manhattan Clam Chowder is a must-try because:

• It’s one of America’s iconic regional dishes.
• It’s packed with healthy vegetables, lean protein, and antioxidants from tomatoes.
• The flavor is bold, aromatic, and unlike any other soup.
• It’s perfect for people who prefer broth-based soups over creamy ones.
• It’s a wonderful introduction to seafood soups for beginners.
• It’s adaptable—make it spicy, veggie-rich, or smoky as you like.

Once you try this homemade version, you’ll understand why it’s cherished in kitchens and seafood restaurants up and down the coast.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 260–300 calories per serving
• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: American (New York / East Coast)

Ingredients

For the Chowder

• 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional but recommended)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups clam juice (bottled or reserved broth)
• 2 cups chopped clams (fresh or canned)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1–2 tsp hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Quick Directions

1. Cook bacon; set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables in oil or bacon fat.
3. Add tomatoes, broth, potatoes, and spices.
4. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
5. Add clams and cook briefly.
6. Stir in parsley and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Bacon (Optional but adds flavor)

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon until crispy.
2. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Leave 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

4. Add olive oil or butter to the pot.
5. Add onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper.
6. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
7. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Chowder Base

8. Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices.
9. Add clam juice and stir well.
10. Add potatoes, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
11. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer

12. Cook for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender and flavors meld.

Step 5: Add Clams

13. Stir in chopped clams.
14. Simmer for 5 minutes—do not overcook or clams may get tough.

Step 6: Finish

15. Stir in fresh parsley.
16. Taste and adjust seasoning.
17. Add hot sauce or extra pepper if desired.
18. Remove bay leaf.

How to Serve This Chowder

Serve Manhattan Clam Chowder:

• Hot, topped with crispy bacon
• With fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon
• With oyster crackers or crusty bread
• Alongside a green salad
• In a traditional soup bowl or a rustic bread bowl

It also pairs beautifully with grilled cheese or seafood sandwiches.

Tips for the Best Manhattan Clam Chowder

• Don’t overcook the clams—add them at the end.
• For a richer flavor, use both bacon fat and olive oil.
• Add a splash of white wine when sautéing vegetables for depth.
• Yukon gold potatoes give a creamy texture but hold shape well.
• Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving—flavors settle beautifully.
• To thicken slightly, mash a few cooked potatoes into the broth.

Variations

1. Spicy Manhattan Chowder

• Add chili flakes
• Increase hot sauce
• Add diced jalapeños

2. Manhattan Seafood Chowder

Add:

• Shrimp
• White fish (cod, halibut)
• Mussels

3. Vegetarian “Clam” Chowder

• Skip clams
• Replace with mushrooms or hearts of palm
• Use vegetable broth

4. Smoky Chowder

• Add smoked paprika
• Use smoked bacon
• Add fire-roasted tomatoes

5. Italian-Style Chowder

• Add basil
• Add cannellini beans
• Finish with Parmesan

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration

• Store in airtight containers.
• Lasts 3–4 days in the fridge.
• Reheat slowly over medium-low heat.

Freezing

This chowder freezes much better than creamy chowders.

• Freeze for up to 2–3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat gently—add a splash of broth if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Ladle
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups & spoons

(Optional: Bread bowls, seafood strainer)

Conclusion

Manhattan Clam Chowder is a vibrant, satisfying dish that blends coastal freshness with bold, comforting flavors. Its tomato-based broth, hearty vegetables, and tender clams create a beautiful harmony of textures and tastes. Whether you’re new to clam chowder or a longtime fan, this version is a must-try for its lightness, depth, and irresistible aroma.

A bowl of Manhattan Clam Chowder is nourishing, comforting, and unforgettable—perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or special gatherings. Once you make it at home, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.