1 1/2 lbs. potatoes, peeled, and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
4 1/2 C. clam broth
3 C. fish stock (you can use bottled clam juice)
2 C. light cream
Clean the clams and place them in a large pot along with the garlic and water.
Steam the clams just until opened, about 6 to 10 minutes, depending upon their
size. Drain and shell the clams, reserving the broth. Mince the clam flesh, and
set aside.
Filter the clam broth either through coffee filters or cheesecloth and set
aside.
In a large, heavy pot slowly render the salt pork. Remove the cracklings (crisp,
brown pieces) and set them aside. Slowly cook the onions in the fat for about 6
minutes, stirring frequently or until cooked through but not browned. Stir in
the flour and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes. Add the reserved clam broth and
Fish Stock, and whisk to remove any flour lumps. Bring the liquid to a boil, add
the potatoes. lower the heat, and simmer until the potatoes are cooked through,
about 15 minutes.
Stir in the reserved clams, salt-pork cracklings, and light cream. Heat the
chowder until it is the temperature you prefer. Serve in large soup bowls with
oyster crackers on the side.
