Oregon's Coastal Classic: Easy Clam Chowder Recipe

Photo bydalle 3

When it comes to Oregon, the first thing that comes to mind is the beautiful coastline, lush forests, and the abundance of fresh seafood. Oregon's rich coastal culture has given rise to many mouthwatering dishes, but none is as comforting and beloved as a hearty bowl of clam chowder. While many recipes can seem daunting, a quick and easy Oregon-style clam chowder brings the flavors of the Pacific Northwest right to your kitchen without much hassle. Perfect for a chilly day or when you're craving something warm and satisfying, this clam chowder recipe is both simple and delicious.

A Taste of Oregon's Coastline

Oregon's clam chowder is all about capturing the essence of the state's pristine shores and bountiful seafood. Imagine tender clams, perfectly cooked potatoes, and savory bacon, all swimming in a creamy broth that warms you from the inside out. This dish is the ideal representation of Oregon's culinary charm, where simplicity meets flavor. And the best part? You don't have to spend hours in the kitchen to achieve this coastal classic. With a few fresh ingredients and some simple steps, you'll have a delicious bowl of chowder ready in no time.

Recipe: Quick and Easy Oregon Clam Chowder

Ingredients:

• 3 strips of bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup water
• 2 cans (6.5 ounces each) of chopped clams, with juice
• 1 cup half-and-half cream
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the clams along with their juice, half-and-half, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook over low heat for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chowder is heated through but not boiling.
5. Ladle the clam chowder into bowls and sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

The Heart of Oregon in a Bowl

This quick and easy clam chowder brings the best of Oregon's coastal flavors to your home. It's creamy, rich, and filled with the savory taste of fresh clams and bacon. The chowder's comforting flavors are perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, reminding you of Oregon's beautiful shores and culinary traditions. Whether you’re an Oregon native or just dreaming of a visit, this clam chowder recipe offers a delicious taste of the Pacific Northwest that’s easy to prepare and impossible to forget.

Here are a few great resources to help you make a quick and easy clam chowder:

1. Allrecipes provides a simple clam chowder recipe that combines convenience and flavor by using canned clams and a slow cooker. This version uses condensed soups, clams, and cream, making it a no-fuss option for a hearty meal. The ingredients are mixed in a slow cooker and cooked on low for 6-8 hours, giving you a creamy chowder that's ready to serve with minimal preparation. You can find the full recipe here​(Allrecipes).
2. CopyKat Recipes offers a slightly different approach with a recipe that includes bacon and fresh ingredients like onions and potatoes, along with clams and clam juice. This version focuses on enhancing the flavors by sautéing onions in bacon drippings and using fresh herbs and spices. It's a quick recipe that takes about 20 minutes to prepare and results in a rich and savory chowder. For more details, check out the full recipe here​(CopyKat Recipes).

Both of these recipes provide different approaches to making a quick and easy clam chowder, whether you prefer a slow-cooked method or a faster stovetop version. Enjoy crafting your perfect bowl of clam chowder with these simple recipes!