Name: Clam and Bacon Broth with Thyme
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs littleneck clams, scrubbed; 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 small onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried); ½ cup dry white wine; 4 cups low-sodium chicken or seafood broth; 1 tbsp butter (optional, for finish); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional garnish: chopped parsley, lemon zest, or red chili flakes

DifficultyBeginner

CategoryChefs Choice, Fish, Pork, Seafood, Soups

This Clam and Bacon Broth with Thyme is a light yet flavorful soup that brings together the oceanic brininess of fresh clams and the smoky richness of crisp bacon in a herbaceous, clear broth. Fragrant thyme and a hint of garlic round out the profile, creating a refined, rustic bowl that celebrates the sea and the skillet.

Yields4 Servings

Prep Time20 minsCook Time35 minsTotal Time55 mins

2 lbs littleneck clams, scrubbed

4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)

½ cup dry white wine

4 cups low-sodium chicken or seafood broth

1 tbsp butter (optional, for finish)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: chopped parsley, lemon zest, or red chili flakes

Clean the Clams

Soak clams in cold water with a bit of salt for 20 minutes to help purge grit.
Scrub shells and rinse thoroughly. Discard any open clams that don’t close when tapped.

Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until browned and crisp.
Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.

Build the Broth

Add onion and garlic to the bacon fat; sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
Stir in thyme and white wine; simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil.

Add the Clams

Carefully add the cleaned clams to the simmering broth.
Cover and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until clams open.
Discard any clams that remain closed.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the cooked bacon and a knob of butter for richness.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Ladle into bowls, garnish with herbs, lemon zest, or chili flakes if desired.

Pairing Suggestions

Crusty sourdough or warm garlic bread
Serve alongside a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry cider
Add a swirl of cream or serve over baby potatoes for a heartier variation

Ingredients