How do I make a healthier version of new england clam chowder?

Indulge guilt-free with our healthier twist on New England Clam Chowder - lighter, yet still full of creamy deliciousness. Chowda-licious and waist-friendly!

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, How do I make a healthier version of New England Clam Chowder. Items include: Olive oil Onion Garlic cloves Celery All-purpose flour Canned chopped clams Low-sodium chicken broth Dried thyme Bay leaf Black pepper Salt Reduced-fat milk Cornstarch Fresh parsley

Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic cloves 2, minced
Celery 1/2 cup, diced
All-purpose flour 2 tablespoons
Canned chopped clams 2 cans, with juice
Low-sodium chicken broth 3 cups
Dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon
Bay leaf 1
Black pepper pinch
Salt pinch
Reduced-fat milk 1/2 cup
Cornstarch 2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley for garnish

Take note
Before diving into this chowder extravaganza, make sure you're not allergic to any of the ingredients. Also, be cautious when handling hot liquids and sharp utensils in the kitchen.

1

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one chopped onion, two minced garlic cloves, and half a cup of diced celery. Sauté them until they become fragrant and tender.

2

Thicken it Up

Sprinkle two tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the pot with the sautéed aromatics. Stir well to coat the veggies. This will help thicken the chowder without using heavy cream.

3

Add the Clams

Now, it's clam time! Pour in two cans of chopped clams (with their juice) along with three cups of low-sodium chicken broth. If you prefer a chunkier chowder, reserve half a cup of clams to add later.

4

Simmer and Season

Bring the pot to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes. In the meantime, season your chowder with half a teaspoon of dried thyme, a bay leaf, a pinch of black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasonings if needed!

5

Make it Creamy (but Healthy)

For a creamy yet waist-friendly twist, swap heavy cream with half a cup of reduced-fat milk mixed with two tablespoons of cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the pot and stir gently until the chowder thickens.

6

Garnish and Serve

Time to add a burst of freshness! Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top of the chowder. Ladle it into bowls, grab your favorite crackers or crusty bread, and indulge in guilt-free deliciousness!