LOW CARB CLAM CHOWDER RECIPES

Steps:

• Drain clams, reserving up to 2 cups of clam juice. If needed, add enough water to clam juice to make 2 cups.
• Add diced bacon to the Instant Pot. Using the display panel select the SAUTE function.
• Cook, stirring occasionally, until the fat has rendered, but the bacon is not crispy.
• Add onion, butter, thyme and celery seed or celery. Deglaze by using a wooden spoon to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pot, then saute until onion is soft, 3-4 minutes.
• Add garlic, salt and pepper and cook for 1-2 minutes more.
• Add clam juice and potatoes and stir to combine.
• Turn the pot off by selecting CANCEL, then secure the lid, making sure the vent is closed.
• Using the display panel select the MANUAL function*. Use the +/- keys and program the Instant Pot for 4 minutes.
• When the time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 4 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
• Using a slotted spoon, remove about half the potatoes to a bowl and set aside. Remove thyme sprigs and discard.
• Use an immersion blender to process soup mixture until smooth. Return reserved potatoes to the pot along with the clams and half and half.
• Cook and stir on the WARM function until chowder is heated through. (Switch to the SAUTE function if needed, but do not boil.)
• Garnish with snipped chives

Steps:

• Place a fine mesh strainer over a medium bowl and strain the 4 cans of minced clams, separating the meat from the juices.
• Using a 6-quart dutch oven or pot of similar size, fry bacon over medium-high heat until fat renders and the edges begin to crisp.
• Add onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes.
• Reduce heat to low and add carrots, celery and flour, stirring constantly for 3-5 minutes to avoid lumps.
• Add black pepper, thyme, reserved clam juices, chicken stock, diced potatoes, and bay leaf. Stir to incorporate, then cover and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat to a simmer and let cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
• Remove bay leaf and add cream. Allow chowder to simmer for an additional 10-20 minutes until soup has thickened to an appropriate consistency.
• Add in reserved clam meat and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes.
• Remove from heat and serve with oyster crackers
• Enjoy!