Chowder is a thick soup prepared with milk or cream, a roux, and seafood or vegetables. Oyster crackers or saltines may accompany chowders as a side item, and cracker pieces may be dropped atop the dish.
New England clam chowder is typically made with chopped clams and diced potatoes, in a mixed cream and milk base, often with a small amount of butter.
Other common chowders include:
- seafood chowder, which includes fish, clams, and many other types of shellfish; lamb or veal chowder made with barley
- corn chowder, which uses corn instead of clams; a wide variety of fish chowders
- potato chowder, which is often made with cheese.
Fish, corn and clam chowder are popular in North America, especially New England and Atlantic Canada.
