Clam chowder is any of several
chowder soups containing
clams and
broth. In addition to clams, common ingredients include diced
potatoes,
onions, and
celery. Other
vegetables are not typically used, but small
carrot strips and a
garnish of
parsley might occasionally be added primarily for color. A garnish of
bay leaves also adds color, along with flavor. It is believed that clams were used in chowder because of the relative ease of harvesting them.