Manhattan Clam Chowder Recipe (Classic New York Tomato-Based Soup)
Best Manhattan Clam Chowder Recipe | Classic New York Tomato Clam Soup
Make the best Manhattan Clam Chowder with tender clams, vegetables, potatoes, herbs, and a rich tomato broth. This easy New York classic is hearty, flavourful, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
π₯£ Manhattan Clam Chowder Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Soup, Main Course
Cuisine: American, New York
Calories: Approximately 290 kcal per serving
Manhattan Clam Chowder is a classic New York soup made with tender clams, potatoes, tomatoes, vegetables, and fragrant herbs. Unlike creamy New England clam chowder, this version features a vibrant tomato-based broth that is light, hearty, and packed with fresh seafood flavour. It's an excellent comfort meal for any season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Authentic New York-style clam chowder
- Rich tomato broth with fresh herbs
- Loaded with clams and vegetables
- Easy one-pot recipe
- Perfect for lunch or dinner
- Great for meal prep
- Family-friendly and satisfying
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups clam juice
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 (170 g) cans chopped clams, with juice
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: SautΓ© the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Add the potatoes, clam juice, diced tomatoes, water, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Simmer
Reduce the heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add the Clams
Stir in the chopped clams along with their juices. Simmer gently for 5 minutes. Do not overcook, as the clams can become tough.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh clams if available for even better flavour.
- Avoid boiling after adding the clams.
- Use low-sodium clam juice to control salt levels.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Crusty sourdough bread
- Oyster crackers
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Green salad
- Cornbread
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Lemon wedges
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Fibre: 4 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 760 mg
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Manhattan and New England clam chowder?
Manhattan Clam Chowder has a tomato-based broth, while New England Clam Chowder is made with a rich, creamy milk- or cream-based broth.
Can I use fresh clams?
Yes. Fresh clams provide excellent flavour. Steam them first, then chop the meat and reserve the cooking liquid.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes. Because it doesn't contain cream, it freezes very well for up to 3 months.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. The flavours become even better after a day in the refrigerator.
What potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well during cooking.
Similar Recipes
- New England Clam Chowder
- Seafood Chowder
- Crab Gumbo
- Cajun Gumbo
- Instant Pot Gumbo
- Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo
- Lobster Bisque
- Creamy Tomato Soup
Final Thoughts
This Manhattan Clam Chowder Recipe delivers the bold, comforting flavours of a New York classic. Tender clams, hearty potatoes, colourful vegetables, and a savoury tomato broth come together in one delicious pot that's perfect for cosy family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Serve it with warm crusty bread for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

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