Grain, Gluten & Dairy Free Clam Chowder
Cozy Up with Grain, Gluten & Dairy-Free Clam Chowder
Craving a comforting and flavorful soup that won’t leave you feeling sluggish? Look no further! This Grain, Gluten & Dairy-Free Clam Chowder is a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying dinner. We’ve taken out the traditional ingredients that can cause digestive upset for many, without sacrificing any of the rich, savory flavor you expect from a good clam chowder.
This recipe is designed to be inclusive, catering to those with gluten sensitivities, dairy intolerances, or anyone simply looking for a healthier take on this beloved dish. We use a combination of fresh clams, smoky sausage, and hearty potatoes to create a truly satisfying and nourishing meal.
What makes this chowder special?
- Free From: Grain-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it accessible to a wider range of dietary needs.
- Flavorful: The combination of smoked sausage, fresh clams, and aromatic herbs creates a complex and delicious flavor profile.
- Hearty & Filling: The potatoes and sausage provide a satisfyingly hearty texture.
- Easy to Make: Despite its sophisticated flavor, this chowder is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Tips for the Best Chowder:
- Fresh Clams are Key: If possible, use fresh, live clams for the best flavor. Be sure to clean them thoroughly before steaming.
- Sausage Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of smoked sausage to customize the flavor. Andouille, Polish, or Chorizo all work well.
- Don’t Overcook the Clams: Overcooked clams can become tough and rubbery. Steam them just until they open.
- Herb Power: Fresh herbs like tarragon and parsley add a bright, aromatic finish to the chowder.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Grain, Gluten & Dairy-Free Clam Chowder with a side of crusty gluten-free bread for dipping, or a simple green salad. It’s also delicious topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use canned clams exclusively? While you can, the flavor won’t be as robust. We recommend using a combination of fresh and canned for the best results.
- What if I can’t find smoked sausage? You can use regular sausage and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the pot for a smoky flavor.
- Can I make this chowder ahead of time? Yes, this chowder can be made a day or two in advance. The flavors will meld together even more beautifully.
- Is this chowder suitable for freezing? While it’s not ideal, you can freeze the chowder. Be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
- Can I substitute the potatoes? Sweet potatoes or other root vegetables can be used, but they will alter the flavor and texture.
Grain, Gluten & Dairy Free Clam Chowder
Ingredients
- 2 lbs live clams cleaned
- 4 links smoked sausage Andouille, Polish, Chorizo etc
- 5 strips bacon thick, cut into 1/2in pieces
- 1 1/2 tbsp coconut oil
- 2 lbs baby potatoes diced
- 3 cups clam water
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup kale chopped
- 1 tbsp tarragon chopped
- 1 tbsp parsley chopped
- 1 can canned clams
- 1 cup clam juice
Instructions
- Steam live clams until they open. Reserve 3 cups of clam water.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving bacon fat in the pot.
- Add coconut oil to the pot. Add potatoes and cook until slightly softened.
- Add smoked sausage and cook until browned.
- Add reserved clam water, water, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
- Add 3 cups of the clam water from cooking the clams and bring back to a simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Add kale, tarragon, parsley, steamed clams, and canned clams. Simmer for 5 minutes and serve.
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