Cliff House Clam Chowder Recipe: Classic Coastal Flavor

Clam chowder is a timeless classic that evokes the cozy charm of seaside dining. Among the many versions of this beloved soup, the Cliff House Clam Chowder stands out as a rich, creamy, and hearty delight, perfect for warming you up on a chilly day or impressing guests at your next dinner party.

This recipe captures the essence of the Pacific coast with fresh clams, tender potatoes, and a luscious broth that’s both comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to try something new, this chowder recipe is approachable and rewarding.

Join me as we dive into the secrets behind the Cliff House Clam Chowder recipe and learn how to create a bowl of creamy goodness that tastes like it came straight from the famous San Francisco restaurant.

Ready your aprons and let’s bring a little taste of the coast to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This clam chowder recipe is a perfect balance of creamy texture and fresh, briny flavor. It’s made with fresh clams and smoky bacon, which adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.

The use of Yukon gold potatoes gives the chowder a velvety consistency without being too thick or heavy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily adjust the creaminess or add extra herbs to suit your taste.

Another reason you’ll adore this recipe is the nostalgic feeling it brings. It’s ideal for family dinners, chilly weekend lunches, or even as an elegant starter for a special occasion.

Not to mention, making it from scratch is surprisingly simple, giving you restaurant-quality chowder at home!

Ingredients

• 3 cups fresh clams (about 2 pounds, cleaned and shucked)
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups clam juice (reserved from cooking clams or bottled)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for brightness)

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Medium saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the clams: Rinse the clams thoroughly under cold water to remove any sand. Place them in a large pot with about 1 cup of water, cover, and steam over medium heat until the clams open, about 5-7 minutes. Discard any unopened clams. Remove the clams from the shells and chop them roughly. Reserve the clam juice by straining the cooking liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove grit. Set aside.
2. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the butter to the bacon fat. Once melted, stir in the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the flour: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken your chowder.
5. Add liquids and potatoes: Slowly whisk in the reserved clam juice and clam cooking liquid along with the milk and cream. Add the diced potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Combine clams and bacon: Once the potatoes are tender, add the chopped clams and cooked bacon back into the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired.
7. Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a classic touch.

Tips & Variations

“For the best flavor, always use fresh clams and make sure to strain your clam juice carefully to avoid any gritty texture.”

• For a thicker chowder, reduce the clam juice by simmering it down before adding.
• Try adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables for a subtle depth.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
• For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
• Vegetarian version? Use vegetable broth and omit clams and bacon. Add sautéed mushrooms for umami.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Clam chowder is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with simple sides and accompaniments. Serve it with warm sourdough bread or buttery oyster crackers to soak up every delicious drop.

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.

For a coastal-inspired meal, add steamed clams or a fresh seafood salad on the side. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the chowder’s creamy texture beautifully.

If you’re looking for more soup ideas to enjoy, check out the Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide for a vegetarian twist or try the All Day Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Comfort Meals.

Conclusion

Making Cliff House Clam Chowder at home is a rewarding way to bring a taste of the coast to your table. With its rich, creamy broth, tender clams, and comforting potatoes, this chowder is a perfect dish for any occasion.

Whether you’re warming up on a cold evening or serving guests at a special gathering, this recipe delivers a satisfying, flavorful experience every time.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the flavors to make the chowder your own, and enjoy the process of creating a classic dish that has delighted seafood lovers for generations. For more delicious meal ideas, explore recipes like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or the Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious to round out your culinary repertoire.

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