Traditionally, "chowder" is considered a catch-all word for a variety of seafood and vegetable soups, but several regions have their own spin on the classic dish, perhaps most famously known for featuring clams. In honor of National Clam Chowder Day (which happens to be tomorrow!), we thought we'd offer a rundown of the most popular chowders across the US, from classic New England clam chowder Read more

You know what they say: if it's too good to be true, then it probably is. For a while, the weather was unseasonably warm, and I started to think there might not be a Winter in the Bay Area. But then this week hit, and boy, was I wrong. Not only is it cold, but the sky's poured rain incessantly, and the bleak forecast continues all week. So I did what I'm wont to do in cold weather: I made clam Read more

Not only did he reveal his favorite aphrodisiacs, but handsome chef David Bazirgan, of the Fifth Floor Restaurant, also shared his recipe for oyster chowder! With its creamy, velvety broth and chunks of plump oysters and soft potatoes, this chowder is to die for. At Fifth Floor, the chef serves it in a shot glass as part of an appetizer that features oysters five ways. When offering it at home as Read more

Although the traditional white clam chowder has origins in New England, the hearty soup is enjoyed throughout the entire United States — especially in San Francisco where it's commonly served in sourdough bread bowls. Since I grew up eating the hearty and creamy soup, I find it incredibly tasty and absolutely comforting. A combination of bacon, potatoes, clams, and milk, it's the perfect Read more

Wondering what to make when a blizzard hits? Be like Fresh Tart and put together a hearty chicken chowder. Oooh, a Minnesota blizzard!  Despite a reputation for otherwise, blizzards don't happen all that often 'round these parts, so it's rather a big deal.  And fun!  At least if you're inside, well-stocked, with a stack of good movies or books. I happened to have chicken, chicken stock, and Read more

Still have some fish leftover from last night's glazed cod dinner? Use it tonight in a steaming pot of chowder! This hearty recipe for smoky fish chowder will warm and fill you up with potatoes, spicy chorizo, and tomatoes. Chowders are a no-fuss mealtime solution when it comes to large groups: just toss everything in the pot and simmer. So don't fret if you have family in town for the Read more

Nothing soothes a sore throat like a bowl of warm soup. When a bad cold hits, OnSugar blogger FreshTart turns to salty, comforting clam chowder! Hot, salty, brothy soup, the best way I know to soothe a sore throat. Or throats — our whole household succumbed to a particularly nasty sore throat virus last week (not strep), ouch! This lovely clam chowder so hit the spot on Sunday night, we Read more

From potato skins to twice-baked potatoes to potatoes au gratin, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the glorious combination of cheese and potatoes. When the weather is cold, however, you can't beat a steaming hot bowl of potato and cheddar chowder. It's thick, it's creamy, and it's comforting. The best thing about this version is the small surprising bites of spicy chorizo. Although the recipe Read more

My little sister has spent the past two months in the Dominican Republic leading a small study abroad tour. To welcome her back home to California, I'm throwing a beach bonfire! Ten of our closest friends will meet us at the shore around 6:30. We'll watch the sunset and enjoy a fabulous meal. When we arrive at the ocean, I'll set out cheese, salami, crackers, and an easy homemade crab cocktail Read more

Summer or Winter, I'll never say no to a piping-hot tureen of New England clam chowder. But lately, I've been trying to reduce my calorie intake by steering myself toward lighter, broth-based soups, like lentil vegetable soup. It's time, I've decided, to try my hand at making Manhattan clam chowder, a totally different yet irrefutably delicious take on shellfish stew. While I love white chowder Read more