Looking for a deliciously creamy yet healthy seafood soup? This Clam Chowder with Coconut and Ginger is a unique take on the classic dish, packed with bold flavors and nutritious ingredients. Unlike traditional chowder, this recipe swaps heavy cream for coconut milk, giving it a luscious texture without the excess dairy. The addition of ginger adds a subtle warmth and depth, making this chowder perfect for any season.
Not only is this chowder dairy-free and gluten-free, but it’s also loaded with immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, ginger, and fresh clams. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl on a chilly evening or a light yet satisfying meal, this chowder has you covered.
Let’s dive into this simple yet gourmet recipe that will have you savoring every spoonful!
🌿 Why It’s Healthy
This chowder is more than just a tasty dish—it’s a nutrient powerhouse:
- Coconut milk provides healthy fats that support brain function and metabolism.
- Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
- Clams are packed with lean protein, iron, and vitamin B12, essential for energy and red blood cell production.
- Garlic and onions add antioxidants and immune-supporting compounds.
With no heavy cream and minimal processed ingredients, this chowder is a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes your body.
🥥 What is Coconut Milk?
Coconut milk is a creamy, dairy-free alternative made from blended coconut flesh and water. It’s a staple in many Southeast Asian and Caribbean dishes due to its rich texture and natural sweetness.
Health Benefits of Coconut Milk:
- Rich in MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides), which may aid in weight management and energy production.
- Lactose-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great alternative for those with dairy sensitivities.
- Contains electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, supporting hydration and muscle function.
Fun fact: Coconut milk can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, from soups to smoothies and even desserts!
🛒 Key Ingredients & Substitutions
This chowder features simple, wholesome ingredients:
- Fresh clams – The star of the dish! Can be substituted with canned clams for convenience.
- Coconut milk – Provides creaminess without dairy.
- Ginger and garlic – Add warmth and depth of flavor.
- Potatoes – A traditional chowder ingredient that thickens the soup naturally.
- Celery and onions – Enhance the aromatic base.
- Fish broth or vegetable broth – A flavorful base for cooking the clams.
Substitutions:
- Swap potatoes for cauliflower for a lower-carb version.
- Use shrimp or white fish instead of clams for variation.
👨🍳 Chef’s Tips
- Soak clams in salted water for 20 minutes before cooking to remove any sand.
- For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the clams back.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice at the end for a fresh, tangy contrast.
- Serve with toasted sourdough or gluten-free crackers for the perfect pairing!
📢 You May Also Like:
If you loved this Clam Chowder with Coconut and Ginger, don’t miss these other delicious and easy-to-make recipes:
- Curried Chicken Noodle Soup with Rice Noodles
- Easy Vegan Corn Chowder Recipe – Ready in 30 Minutes!
- Best Spicy Coconut Soup (Thai Style)
- Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles
- Lemon Herb Salmon Bowl
- Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew
🍽️ Let’s Go There!
Now that you know all the amazing benefits and flavors of this dish, it’s time to get cooking! Follow the step-by-step instructions below and enjoy a rich, velvety chowder with a tropical twist.
Description
This Clam Chowder with Coconut and Ginger is a creamy, dairy-free twist on a classic seafood soup. Perfectly balanced with fresh clams, coconut milk, and warming ginger.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the clams:
Soak the clams in salted water for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
-
Sauté aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
-
Add vegetables:
Stir in celery and potatoes. Cook for 3 minutes.
-
Simmer broth:
Pour in the fish broth and bring to a gentle boil. Cook until potatoes are tender.
-
Add coconut milk:
Stir in coconut milk, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
-
Cook clams:
Add clams and cover. Steam until clams open (about 5 minutes). Discard any unopened clams.
-
Finish & Serve:
Stir in lime juice, adjust seasoning, and serve hot!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 724kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34g53%
- Saturated Fat 21.9g110%
- Cholesterol 68mg23%
- Sodium 2158.5mg90%
- Potassium 1730.5mg50%
- Total Carbohydrate 64.7g22%
- Dietary Fiber 8.9g36%
- Sugars 5.4g
- Protein 46.5g93%
- Calcium 269.6 mg
- Iron 10.7 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. ____ (*Keep in mind that these are approximate values and may vary slightly depending on the brands and exact proportions of ingredients used. For more precise measurements, it’s best to use a specific nutritional calculator or product labels for the ingredients you’re using.)
Note
- For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of butter or ghee.
- If using canned clams, add them in step 6 and reduce cooking time slightly.
- Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of chili flakes.
User Reviews
Loved this Clam Chowder with Coconut & Ginger! Creamy yet light, with a delicious ginger-coconut twist. Easy to make, fragrant, and so comforting. Added a squeeze of lime for extra zing—perfect! a must-try! 😊 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
“Thank you so much, Lana! We’re thrilled you loved the chowder—your lime twist sounds perfect. Happy cooking!” 😊🍲