New England clam chowder is a cream or milk-based clam stew that originated in the 17th and 18th centuries. It typically includes clams, potatoes, onions, bacon or salted pork, and a thickener. It can be served in a bowl or a bread bowl and is celebrated on National New England Clam Chowder Day on January 21.
New England clam chowder is a thick type of clam stew that is made using a base of cream or milk. This differs from other popular clam chowders, which have a tomato or broth base. As anyone familiar with clam chowder knows, clam chowder is often the subject of much debate over which is better or more authentic. In most of the New England area, the chowder, or “chow-dah,” of choice, is New England clam chowder.
As arguably the most popular and recognizable type of chowder, New England clam chowder’s origins date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Initially, chowder did not include clams at all, but was made using fish and fish parts brought in by fishermen. Eventually, clams called quahogs were used to replace fish in chowder.
While there are many recipes and variations of what makes authentic New England clam chowder, the basic ingredients are usually the same. This includes using clams, milk or cream, diced potatoes, onions, and bacon or salted pork. Cooks also add a thickener, such as flour or biscuits to get the right texture. Originally, cracker-like cookies called hardtacks were layered with ingredients as they baked. Depending on the specific recipe and personal preference, the finished soup can be made to be smooth or chunky.
There are several ways to serve New England clam chowder. The most obvious is to put it in a bowl of soup and serve with pretzels or oyster crackers. Another option is to make a “bowl” out of bread. This is done by hollowing out a round loaf of sourdough bread and filling the center with clam chowder. It can then be served with the removed pieces of sourdough on the side or with crackers.
In the United States, January 21 is a holiday called National New England Clam Chowder Day. It is held in celebration of this cream-based clam chowder. On this day some restaurants will often serve their New England clam chowders at a special discount to celebrate the holiday.
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