Clam Chowder “Spoon Test”

Clam Chowder “Spoon Test”

Hello! Ever since I can remember, my grandpa has always insisted on doing a “Spoon Test” whenever clam chowder is served. According to him, if the spoon stands upright on its own in the chowder, that’s a sign of a high-quality dish.

Recently, I was watching a Food Network show where a judge criticized a contestant for their chowder being too thick, which got me thinking… Is the spoon test a legitimate indicator, or did my grandpa just make it up?

Curious, I searched online, but I couldn’t find any mention of this test. Instead, the results suggested that a good clam chowder is usually on the thinner side. So, I’m left wondering: Is the spoon test a real standard, or is it just a family myth? And when it comes to clam chowder, what’s better—thick or thin?


Comments

One response to “Clam Chowder “Spoon Test””

  1. It sounds like your grandpa’s “Spoon Test” is a fun tradition, even if it doesn’t have widespread recognition! While there’s no official culinary standard that says the spoon should stand up in a good clam chowder, it does highlight the thickness and richness of the chowder.

    In general, the debate over whether clam chowder should be thick or thin can vary by region and personal preference. For example, New England clam chowder is typically cream-based and tends to be thicker, while Manhattan clam chowder is tomato-based and generally thinner. Both styles have their own loyal fans!

    Ultimately, a “good” clam chowder depends on what you enjoy. If you like your chowder thick and hearty, then your grandpa’s test makes perfect sense! If you prefer a lighter consistency, then a thinner chowder might be more your style. It’s all about what tastes best to you!

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