Instant Pot Clam Chowder

Instant Pot Clam Chowder

No need to travel to New England for clam chowder. This easy version can be prepared in minutes using the Instant Pot.
  • Preparation:
  • Cooking:
  • Total:
  • Serves: 6 persons

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Gather the ingredients.
  2. Step 2

    Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add 1/2 tablespoon olive oil to the pot. Transfer the diced bacon to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Step 3

    Carefully transfer the cooked and crisped bacon to a paper towel lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.
  4. Step 4

    Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot and add the diced onions, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 4 minutes, or until softened, stirring occasionally.
  5. Step 5

    Add the cubed potatoes, clams, clam juice, water, salt, thyme, and pepper to the pot. Secure the lid on the pot and set to manual. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. When the cooking is complete, manually release the pressure by moving the valve to venting. 
  6. Step 6

    Remove the lid and once again set to the sauté function. (Use a low setting, if possible on your appliance). Add the milk and cream to the pot. Heat, stirring occasionally, to a very gentle boil.
  7. Step 7

    In a small bowl, add the flour. Ladle about 3/4 cup of the liquid from the soup and transfer it to the bowl. Using a fork, stir the flour and liquid together until you get a thick paste. Scrape the thick paste into the pot and stir to incorporate with the rest of the soup. Let the soup simmer for about 4 minutes more to thicken. 
  8. Step 8

    Ladle the soup into serving bowls. Top with the crumbled bacon and a few twists of fresh black pepper. Serve with oyster crackers, if desired.
  9. Step 9

    Enjoy!