Corn Chowder Recipe
Nothing beats the comforting warmth of a creamy corn chowder on a chilly day. This delicious soup is a perfect blend of sweet corn, hearty potatoes, and rich creaminess that will leave you craving more. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy corn chowder:
For the Base:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup diced cooked bacon for garnish
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Vegetables and Stock
Stir in the corn kernels and potatoes, ensuring everything is evenly mixed. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Blend for Creaminess
Using an immersion blender, partially blend the soup to create a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for added heartiness. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Pro Tip: Blending only a portion of the chowder gives you the perfect balance of creaminess and texture.
4. Stir in the Cream and Seasonings
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and parsley for an extra burst of flavor and presentation.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Corn Chowder
- Use fresh corn when in season: It gives a natural sweetness that elevates the dish. If using fresh corn, don’t discard the cobs! Simmer them in the stock for added flavor.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock and skip the bacon garnish.
- Add a kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Thicken the chowder: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the chowder while it simmers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This corn chowder is:
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable to suit your dietary preferences.
- Rich and creamy, with just the right amount of sweetness from the corn.
Storing and Reheating
- To Store: Refrigerate the chowder in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid curdling.
Enjoy a bowl of this hearty and satisfying corn chowder that warms both the body and soul!
