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Manhattan Clam Chowder

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A hearty tomato-based Manhattan clam chowder loaded with tender clams, pancetta, vegetables, spinach, and savory broth. White wine, lemon, and Parmesan rind add layers of bright, rich flavor.

Ingredients

  • 18 top neck clams
  • 1/4 lb pancetta, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1.5 cups passata
  • 2 cups clam juice
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1 12 oz can white clam juice
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 cup white wine, divided
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 parmesan rind
  • 2 cups spinach

Instructions

  1. Scrub and rinse the clams. Add 1/2 cup white wine and the juice from 1 lemon to a pot along with enough water for steaming. Add the clams and raise the heat to medium-high.
  2. Steam the clams until they begin to open, removing each clam as it opens. Strain the steaming liquid into a measuring cup and set aside. Remove the clams from their shells, chop them, and set aside.
  3. Add the pancetta to a large pot over medium heat and fry until golden-brown, about 8 minutes.
  4. Add the celery, onion, and carrots and saute until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the garlic and saute for 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 3 minutes to caramelize the paste.
  6. Pour in the remaining 1/2 cup white wine to deglaze the pot. Bring to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  7. Add the passata and simmer for 5 minutes.
  8. Add the chicken stock, clam juice, white clam juice, bay leaves, Parmesan rind, and reserved liquid from the steamed clams. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
  9. Add the chopped clams and spinach. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 3 minutes, then stir until the spinach is wilted.
  10. Remove the bay leaves and Parmesan rind before serving. Serve the chowder hot.

Notes

  • Discard any clams that do not open during steaming.
  • Straining the clam-steaming liquid helps prevent grit from getting into the chowder.
  • Serve with chopped parsley and oyster crackers if desired.
  • Taste before adding any extra salt, as pancetta, clam juice, and Parmesan can already provide substantial seasoning.

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