Sunday, December 23, 2018

Christmas Eve Clam Chowder

Christmas Eve Clam Chowder- with bacon!

INGREDIENTS:
  • 1 package of uncured bacon
  • 2 sweet potatoes 
  • 1 head of garlic
  • 2 celery hearts
  • 1/2 large red onion

  • 2 bottles clam juice
  • 2-3 lb fresh wild clams

  • 3c organic whole milk
  • 3T heavy whipping cream (or plain yogurt in a pinch)
  • 1/4c thyme leaves (stripped)
  • Chili powder
  • Salt and pepper 

DIRECTIONS:

  • Chop sweet potatoes and add to a pot of cool water; simmer until just soft; drain and set aside
  • Cook bacon in a large dutch oven until crispy, drain on a paper towel
  • Reserve some of the bacon grease for another use (I suggest with eggs!) but leave a fair amount in the bottom of the dutch oven for softening the veggies
  • Chop all the veggies into small pieces
  • Heat remaining bacon grease in dutch oven and soften garlic, onion, and celery
  • When soft, add sweet potatoes and clam juice-- deglaze the bottom of the dutch oven
  • Add clams
  • On low heat, add milk and cream/yogurt; slowly bring to a simmer
  • Season to taste, add thyme leaves
  • Scoop into bowls, top with crumbled bacon, more thyme, and black pepper
  • Serve with crackers!

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