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Corn Chowder

Corn Chowder
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A comforting and creamy corn chowder recipe that blends the sweetness of fresh corn with savory ingredients, perfect for cozy meals year-round. This hearty soup is simple to make, customizable with various protein and flavor options, and suitable for all cooking skill levels.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 to 1 ½ cups cream or milk (or plant-based milk for vegan)

Optional Protein

  • 4 slices bacon, chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup smoked sausage, sliced (optional)

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • 1 jalapeño or ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese (for cheesy version)
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp or crab meat (for seafood addition)
  • 1 to 1 ½ cups coconut milk or almond milk (for vegan alternative)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Rinse and dice the potatoes into bite-size cubes. Finely chop the onions and garlic. If using fresh corn, carefully cut kernels off the cob.
  2. Cook Aromatics and Bacon (if using): In a large pot, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove bacon pieces, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. Use this fat to sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant.
  3. Simmer Potatoes and Corn: Add diced potatoes and corn kernels to the pot. Pour in the broth or stock. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Blend Partially (Optional): For a creamier chowder, use an immersion blender to pulse about half of the soup until smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.
  5. Stir in Cream and Seasonings: Reduce heat to low. Add cream or milk, cooked bacon (if used), and season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Heat gently without boiling to avoid curdling.
  6. Serve Hot and Enjoy: Ladle corn chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, crispy bacon bits, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream as desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn in season for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overboil after adding cream to maintain a silky texture.
  • Mix chicken and vegetable broth or add a splash of white wine for richer taste.
  • Add soy sauce or smoked paprika to enhance umami and depth.
  • Adjust blending for your preferred texture, chunky or smooth.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers refrigerated up to 3 days.
  • Freeze without dairy if possible; add cream after reheating for best results.
  • Reheat gently on low heat, adding broth or cream if needed to restore texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn chowder, creamy corn soup, easy soup recipe, hearty chowder, gluten free soup, vegetarian corn chowder, vegan corn chowder

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/corn-chowder/