
Classic New England Clam Chowder is a rich, creamy soup made with tender clams, potatoes, onions, and often salt pork or bacon, served in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl. It hails from the coastal New England region of the United States, particularly associated with Massachusetts and Rhode Island, where it's a beloved comfort food and staple in seafood restaurants.
This dish is high in carbohydrates and fat, primarily from the creamy base and the bread bowl, while providing a good source of protein from the clams. A typical serving in a bread bowl can range from 600 to 800 calories, offering nutrients like iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12.
| Calories | 580 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 65 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 1350 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 12 mcg |
| Selenium | 30 mcg |
Per 1 bread bowl (approx. 350 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, the bread bowl presentation is an iconic American twist that turns the meal into an edible, interactive experience, often enjoyed in coastal towns or during winter months. Nutritionally, the clams add a surprising boost of minerals like zinc and selenium, making it more nutrient-dense than many other creamy soups.