Old Bay Clam Chowder is an iconic soup dish originating from the Maryland coast. This traditional recipe is a creamy, flavorful soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, onion, celery, and of course, Old Bay seasoning. This dish is beloved by locals and visitors alike, and is a staple of the Chesapeake Bay area's culinary scene.
What is Old Bay?
Old Bay is a blend of herbs and spices that originated in Baltimore in 1939. It is made from a combination of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, bay leaves, nutmeg, and mace. Old Bay seasoning is primarily used to season seafood, such as lobster, crabs, and clams. It is also used to season other dishes, such as potato salad, chicken wings, and deviled eggs.
Ingredients
Old Bay Clam Chowder requires a few simple ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup of diced onion
- 1/2 cup of diced celery
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 2 cups of half-and-half
- 2 cups of diced potatoes
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 2 (6.5-ounce) cans of minced clams, with juice
- 2 tablespoons of Old Bay seasoning
Instructions
To make Old Bay Clam Chowder, begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the flour and cook for another minute. Gradually add the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Add the potatoes, parsley, clams and their juice, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Serving Suggestions
Old Bay Clam Chowder is best served hot with a sprinkle of additional Old Bay seasoning, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. It is also delicious served with a side of oyster crackers or crusty bread. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of Old Bay Clam Chowder?
Old Bay Clam Chowder is a traditional soup dish that originated in the Chesapeake Bay area of Maryland. It is made with fresh clams, potatoes, onion, celery, and Old Bay seasoning.
What is Old Bay seasoning?
Old Bay seasoning is a blend of herbs and spices that originated in Baltimore in 1939. It is made from a combination of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, bay leaves, nutmeg, and mace. It is primarily used to season seafood dishes.
How do you make Old Bay Clam Chowder?
To make Old Bay Clam Chowder, begin by melting butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until the vegetables are softened. Then, stir in the flour and cook for another minute. Gradually add the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Add the potatoes, parsley, clams and their juice, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
How should Old Bay Clam Chowder be served?
Old Bay Clam Chowder is best served hot with a sprinkle of additional Old Bay seasoning, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. It is also delicious served with a side of oyster crackers or crusty bread.
Is Old Bay Clam Chowder healthy?
Old Bay Clam Chowder is a nutritious dish with a variety of healthy ingredients. It is a good source of protein and fiber, and is low in calories and fat. However, it does contain high levels of sodium due to the Old Bay seasoning, so it is important to limit your portions if you are watching your sodium intake.
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