Newport is busy with visiting guests, drop-by garden aficionados and parties galore. You probably have your own version of this summer fun also. So I thought you might enjoy an easy-to-assemble, spur-of-the-moment entertaining idea that plays off a New England signature favorite– clam chowder. And you can set it up any place — on the beach, by the barbecue, on a mountain top. Plus, it’s a filling, “one-dish meal.” Just add a salad, shrimp cocktail and cheese platter (above)…and chewy sourdough bread… and you have a summer pop-up party!
It’s as easy as 1-2-3
1. Rent a tabletop burner
2. Make the chowder base
3. Gather the fillings
Tip: Chowders, fish stews, summer soups — each is a reason to collect interesting bowls — from vintage “shell” dishes to glazed earthenware to sea treasures and birds hand-painted on porcelain.
Make your own chowder.
The twist in this chowder bar concept is that each guest selects from the ten ingredients that can be added to the original chowder base…one person may only want clams, potatoes and bacon; another guest only seafood (scallops, shrimp, halibut, clams). And then there’s the option of including every ingredient…chopped halibut, baby shrimp, sea scallops, clams, Portugese sausage, bacon, potatoes, red peppers, chives and leeks.
The guest’s personalized chowder is made to order and cooked on the little burner (if this is a big party, you may need more than one tabletop burner).
Yummy!
Don’t forget the oyster crackers…
Last week my sun porch served as the perfect setting for this kind of pop-up party, which requires little space.
Here’s to tasty and easy end-of-summer entertaining.
I absolutely love this idea. Every fall I host a ‘soup night’ and offer 3 different homemade soups. Guests can bring sides that work well with soup if they like. It is always a huge hit. Your idea of a chowder base is just fantastic and I know it will occur in my house soon!
Thanks for sharing.
Fondly,
-Lisa
Thank you, Lisa, for that resounding endorsement. I feel the same way…maybe this is how a new trend starts?
Enjoy your soup parties; such a good idea no matter the weather or season. Cheers from Newport, Bettie
Fantastic idea Bettie! We were in Newport over July 4th and always take the opportunity to enjoy some chowder when we’re there, it’s the perfect meal. I LOVE this idea and will definitely incorporate it into my hosting repertoire for Book Club and Family& Friends . I appreciate your providing a recipe, thank you. I was not familiar with the use of individual add ins, it’s a charming concept and will allow all to enjoy the opportunity to Individualize their meal. I’m looking forward also selecting the serving platters & bowls from my collection. Bettie, I know you are very busy, however I can see you perhaps creating/designing a lovely dinnerware/hosting collection! Best regards, Helen O
SOUPER idea! I love this and you’ve once again inspired me!
Thank Bettie!
Big hugs!
Cindy
This looks AMAZING! Will definitely be making this, thank you so much!