Hey guys! Craving some creamy, dreamy clam chowder but trying to avoid gluten? No problem! Let's dive into this amazing Newport gluten-free clam chowder recipe that'll have you saying, "Wow, I can't believe this is gluten-free!" We're talking about a chowder that's so rich and flavorful, you won't even miss the gluten. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want something comforting and delicious. So, grab your ingredients, put on your chef's hat, and let's get cooking!

Why This Recipe Rocks

Okay, so you might be wondering, "Why should I bother with this gluten-free clam chowder recipe?" Well, let me tell you! First off, it's ridiculously easy to make. Seriously, even if you're not a master chef, you can totally nail this. Secondly, it's packed with flavor. We're talking about a symphony of savory clams, creamy potatoes, and aromatic herbs. And the best part? It's gluten-free, so you can enjoy every spoonful without any worries. Plus, this recipe is super versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Want a little kick? Throw in some red pepper flakes. Feeling fancy? Add a splash of sherry. The possibilities are endless!

This Newport gluten-free clam chowder recipe is a game-changer for anyone with gluten sensitivities or those simply looking for a healthier alternative. Many store-bought clam chowders are thickened with wheat flour, making them off-limits for those avoiding gluten. This homemade version allows you to control every ingredient, ensuring a truly gluten-free and wholesome meal. Using ingredients like potato starch or cornstarch as a thickening agent provides the same creamy texture without the gluten. The result is a comforting, flavorful chowder that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions. Plus, making it from scratch means you can adjust the seasonings and ingredients to perfectly match your taste preferences, creating a personalized dish that's far superior to anything you can buy in a can.

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, let's talk ingredients. Here's what you'll need to whip up this delicious Newport gluten-free clam chowder:

• 2 cans (6.5 ounces each) chopped clams, undrained
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup gluten-free flour (or cornstarch)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Spotlight: Clams

Okay, let's zoom in on the star of the show: clams! For this recipe, I recommend using canned chopped clams. They're convenient, affordable, and packed with that classic clam flavor. Make sure to grab the ones in juice, not the ones in oil. The juice adds extra flavor to the chowder. If you're feeling fancy, you can totally use fresh clams, but that'll require a bit more work. You'll need to steam them open, remove the meat, and chop them up. But hey, if you're up for the challenge, go for it!

Ingredient Substitutions

• Bacon: If you're not a fan of bacon (gasp!), you can substitute it with pancetta or even skip it altogether. Just add a little extra butter or olive oil for flavor.
• Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even milk. Just keep in mind that the chowder won't be as creamy.
• Gluten-Free Flour: Cornstarch, tapioca starch, or even potato starch will work just fine as a substitute.
• Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth or fish stock can be used instead of chicken broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, guys, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own amazing Newport gluten-free clam chowder:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make the Roux: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter and gluten-free flour (or cornstarch) until smooth. This is your gluten-free roux, which will thicken the chowder without any gluten. Make sure you get all the clumps out!
5. Thicken the Chowder: Stir the roux into the pot with the broth and potatoes. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the chowder has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Add the Clams and Cream: Stir in the clams (with their juice), heavy cream, salt, pepper, and thyme. Heat through, but don't boil. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Newport gluten-free clam chowder!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chowder

Want to take your Newport gluten-free clam chowder to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Don't Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will turn mushy and make your chowder too thick. Cook them until they're tender but still hold their shape.
• Use a Good Quality Broth: The flavor of your broth will greatly impact the flavor of your chowder. Use a good quality chicken broth or vegetable broth for the best results.
• Adjust the Thickness: If your chowder is too thick, add a little more broth or cream to thin it out. If it's too thin, cook it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
• Season to Taste: Don't be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or thyme as needed.
• Let it Simmer: Simmering the chowder for a longer period of time will allow the flavors to meld together and create a richer, more flavorful dish.

Variations to Try

The beauty of this Newport gluten-free clam chowder recipe is that it's super versatile. Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Chowder: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Vegetable Chowder: Add your favorite veggies, such as carrots, celery, or corn.
• Seafood Chowder: Add other seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, or crab meat.
• Smoked Chowder: Use smoked bacon or add a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Newport gluten-free clam chowder is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even better:

• Serve with Gluten-Free Crackers: Gluten-free crackers are a great accompaniment to clam chowder.
• Serve with a Salad: A simple green salad or a Caesar salad pairs perfectly with clam chowder.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: If you're not gluten-free, serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Serve as a Starter: Clam chowder makes a great starter for a seafood dinner.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Want to make this Newport gluten-free clam chowder ahead of time? No problem! Here's how:

• Make-Ahead: You can make the chowder up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Storage: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: Freezing clam chowder is not recommended, as the cream can separate and the texture can change. However, if you do choose to freeze it, make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutritional Information

Okay, let's talk nutrition. Here's a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving of this Newport gluten-free clam chowder:

• Calories: 400-500
• Fat: 30-40 grams
• Protein: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams

Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and the actual nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A delicious and easy-to-make Newport gluten-free clam chowder recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're gluten-free or not, you're sure to love this creamy, flavorful chowder. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start cooking! And don't forget to share your creations with me. Happy cooking!