lam chowder is a hearty and comforting dish, especially popular in the colder months. Whether you prefer New England clam chowder, known for its creamy base, or Manhattan clam chowder, with its tomato flavor, the debate about which brand offers the best canned version is ongoing. In this article, we’ll explore top clam chowder brands to help you decide which one to choose.
Types of Clam Chowder
Before diving into brand comparisons, it’s crucial to know the main types of clam chowder:
- New England Clam Chowder: A creamy, rich chowder made with clams, potatoes, and cream.
- Manhattan Clam Chowder: A tomato-based soup, typically including vegetables like carrots and celery.
- Rhode Island Clam Chowder: A lesser-known version with a clear broth, offering a pure clam-forward flavor.
If you’re exploring different types of chowders, you might also want to check out our detailed guide to clam chowder preparation and history for a deeper dive into this iconic dish.
What Makes a Great Clam Chowder?
Several factors contribute to what makes a clam chowder stand out:
- Taste: A balanced, rich flavor that brings out the clams without overpowering them with cream or tomatoes.
- Texture: No one wants a watery chowder or rubbery clams. The consistency should be thick but not gloppy(
)(
).
- Ingredients: Sustainable and natural ingredients are increasingly important. Brands like Bar Harbor focus on sourcing sustainable seafood, which enhances the overall taste and quality.
For more on how to incorporate sustainable ingredients into your meals, check out our guide on Mastering Garlic Butter Salmon, another great seafood dish.
Top Clam Chowder Brands
1. Campbell’s Chunky New England Clam Chowder
Campbell’s is a reliable choice for many, offering a filling and creamy option with chunks of potatoes. However, it sometimes leans more toward a potato soup than a clam chowder(
).
- Taste: Mild, creamy flavor with more emphasis on the potatoes.
- Texture: Chunky, but may lack enough clams for some.
- Nutrition: 180 calories, 10g fat, 790mg sodium per serving.
2. Progresso Traditional Manhattan Clam Chowder
This is a great lighter alternative for those who prefer a tomato base. While it’s a healthier option with fewer calories and fat, some may find the tomato broth too watery(
).
- Taste: Fresh and light, with a tomato broth that may not be rich enough for some.
- Texture: Good vegetable content but fewer clam pieces.
- Nutrition: 100 calories, 2g fat per cup.
3. Bar Harbor New England Clam Chowder
Bar Harbor offers a premium product with a homemade feel. This clam chowder has large clam pieces and a strong flavor, thanks to its sustainably sourced ingredients(
).
- Taste: Rich, clam-forward flavor.
- Texture: Thick and hearty with an excellent clam-to-potato ratio.
- Nutrition: 80 calories, 2.5g fat per half-cup.
For those interested in other dishes made with sustainably sourced seafood, you might enjoy our 3-Ingredient Creamy Mushroom Crockpot Chicken, which uses minimal ingredients but maximizes flavor.
4. Snow’s New England Clam Chowder
Snow’s has been around for decades, known for its consistency and simple, comforting flavor. While it might lack the complexity of more premium brands, it remains a solid and budget-friendly choice(
).
- Taste: Mild but creamy; extra seasoning can enhance the flavor.
- Texture: Smooth and hearty.
- Nutrition: 160 calories, 9g fat per serving.
5. Chincoteague Seafood Manhattan Clam Chowder
Chincoteague’s version of Manhattan clam chowder is well-balanced, though the clam flavor might not be as pronounced as in other brands(
).
- Taste: Balanced but mild clam flavor.
- Texture: Full of vegetables with a thinner broth.
- Nutrition: 100 calories, 2g fat per cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand has the best clam chowder?
For overall flavor, Bar Harbor takes the crown, especially for New England clam chowder. Its rich flavor and focus on natural ingredients make it a standout. If you’re looking for a healthier, tomato-based option, Progresso Manhattan Clam Chowder is a solid pick.
Is canned clam chowder healthy?
It depends on the brand. Some canned chowders are high in sodium and fat, so it’s important to read labels. Progresso’s Manhattan Clam Chowder is one of the lower-calorie options, while Bar Harbor provides a more nutrient-dense and sustainable choice.
What is the difference between New England and Manhattan clam chowder?
New England clam chowder is creamy and rich, while Manhattan clam chowder is tomato-based with a lighter, broth-like consistency.
Can you improve canned clam chowder?
Yes! Adding fresh cream, butter, or herbs like parsley can enhance the flavor. You can also include extra clams, potatoes, or vegetables for more texture and richness.