CLAM SOUP BASE RECIPES

Steps:

• In a heavy stockpot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and then add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent about 5-7 minutes.
• Meanwhile, drain the clam juice from the chopped clams and combine with enough bottled juice to equal 3 cups of liquid.
• Once the onions are cooked, add the flour and cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes, to form the roux. The roux should remain golden and not be browned.
• Now, whisk in the clam juice, bring to a boil, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The liquid should be the consistency of heavy cream. If it is too thick, add more clam juice (or water) to adjust the consistency.
• Add the potatoes and simmer until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
• When the potatoes are tender, add the clams and cream to the soup base. Simmer for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat before boiling so the milk doesn't separate.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish with Oyster Crackers and freshly chopped parsley.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with our New England Clam Cakes.

Steps:

• Bring bottled clam juice and potatoes to boil in heavy large saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
• Melt butter in heavy large pot over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until bacon begins to brown, about 8 minutes. Add onions, celery, garlic and bay leaf and sauté until vegetables soften, about 6 minutes. Stir in flour and cook 2 minutes (do not allow flour to brown). Gradually whisk in reserved juices from clams. Add potato mixture, clams, half and half and hot pepper sauce. Simmer chowder 5 minutes to blend flavors, stirring frequently. Season to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Refrigerate uncovered until cold, then cover and keep refrigerated. Bring to simmer before serving.)