New England Clam Chowder
Cozy Up with Sugar-Free New England Clam Chowder
Craving a classic comfort food without the guilt? Look no further! This Sugar-Free New England Clam Chowder recipe delivers all the creamy, savory goodness you expect, but with a healthy twist. We’ve swapped out traditional ingredients for lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for a chilly evening, a weekend lunch, or any time you need a warm, satisfying meal.
New England Clam Chowder is a staple for good reason – it’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly comforting. But many recipes rely heavily on cream and sugar, making them less than ideal for those watching their intake. This version uses clever substitutions like fat-free cottage cheese and a touch of oat flour to achieve that signature creamy texture without the added sugar.
What makes this recipe different?
- Sugar-Free: We’ve eliminated all added sugars, making it a healthier choice.
- Lighter Texture: Using cottage cheese and almond milk keeps it creamy without being heavy.
- Flavorful & Satisfying: You won’t miss the traditional ingredients – this chowder is packed with flavor!
Tips for the Best Chowder:
- Don’t overcook the potatoes: You want them tender, but not mushy.
- Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the chowder, as this can make it watery.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
- Bacon is key: The crumbled turkey bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Sugar-Free New England Clam Chowder with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It’s also delicious topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: Yes, you can substitute almond milk with other unsweetened plant-based milks like cashew or soy milk.
Q: Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! You’ll need about 2 dozen fresh clams. Steam them until they open, remove the meat, and chop it before adding it to the chowder.
Q: Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. It may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little more milk or water when reheating.
Q: Is oat flour essential?
A: No, you can substitute with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of water to thicken the chowder.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative, and ensure your almond milk is unsweetened.
New England Clam Chowder (Sugar-Free)
Ingredients
- 1 slice turkey bacon
- 1/3 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 cups chicken broth divided
- 1 cup diced yellow or red potatoes
- 5 ounce can baby clams
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup fat-free cottage cheese
- 2 cups almond milk or water
- 3-4 tablespoons oat flour
Instructions
- In a 2 quart stockpot, fry the bacon. Remove the bacon and crumble. Set aside.
- Add the onion, carrots, celery, and 1/4 cup broth to the stockpot. Simmer until onions are translucent.
- In a separate pot, cook potatoes in the remaining broth until soft.
- Add cooked potatoes with the broth to the veggie mixture.
- Add undrained clams, salt, and pepper.
- Blend the cottage cheese, milk/water, and oat flour together until smooth.
- Add blended mixture slowly into the stockpot, stirring continually.
- Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
- Garnish each serving with reserved bacon.
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