why make this recipe
Corn chowder is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. It’s a delightful combination of sweet corn, creamy goodness, and a hint of spice. This chowder is not only satisfying but also easy to make, ensuring a delicious meal without too much hassle.
With its versatile ingredients, corn chowder makes for a great year-round dish. Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a warm summer afternoon, this chowder can be enjoyed any time. Plus, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a casual dinner with friends.
equipment needed for Corn Chowder
To make corn chowder, you will need the following equipment:
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or immersion blender (optional)
What You Need to Make Corn Chowder
You will need the following ingredients to prepare the corn chowder:
6 slices thick-cut bacon
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
6 small green onions
2 stalks celery
4 cloves garlic
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 can low sodium chicken broth (14 ounces)
1 cup nonfat milk or milk of choice
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 can cream-style corn (15 ounces)
1 pound Yukon gold potatoes
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1/2 cup half-and-half
Hot sauce (optional)
How to Cook Corn Chowder Step by Step
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Take the bacon and cut it into small pieces. In a Dutch oven or similar large pot, sauté the bacon over medium-low heat until it becomes crispy, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pot.
Next, melt the butter in the pot with the leftover bacon fat. Add the chopped green onions (keeping some for garnish later) and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables until they are tender, which should take roughly 3 minutes.
Then, stir in the minced garlic, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Cook this mixture until the garlic becomes fragrant. After that, sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring for about 1 minute to combine everything together.
Gradually add the low sodium chicken broth to the pot while stirring to make sure there are no lumps. Once the broth is well mixed in, pour in the milk followed by the corn kernels, cream-style corn, diced Yukon gold potatoes, and ground cayenne pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally while cooking for about 10 to 13 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Once the potatoes are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh thyme and half-and-half for that creamy texture. If you want a thicker chowder, consider puréeing part of the soup using a blender or immersion blender.
Finally, serve the chowder hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon bits, green onion tops, and a dash of hot sauce if desired.
how to make Corn Chowder
Making corn chowder is a straightforward process that involves cooking and combining a few key ingredients. Start with cooking the bacon first, as it adds a rich flavor to the dish. Next, building the base of the chowder with sautéed vegetables creates a depth of taste that complements the corn.
After preparing the cooking base, the addition of liquids like chicken broth and milk creates the desired creaminess. Incorporating both fresh and cream-style corn adds sweetness and texture. With Yukon gold potatoes providing heartiness, the chowder evolves into a satisfying meal.
Once the chowder is done, remember to taste and adjust the seasoning. You can always add more spice or herbs according to your preference. The final touch with thyme and half-and-half elevates the chowder to a comforting bowl of goodness.
how to serve Corn Chowder
Serving corn chowder is simple and can be done in various ways. Ladle generous portions of the chowder into bowls while making sure to include some of the crispy bacon and green onions on top. This not only enhances the look of the dish but also brings extra flavor.
Accompany your chowder with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or additional thyme, for a vibrant touch. If you enjoy some heat, offering hot sauce on the side allows each person to customize their bowl.
Corn chowder can also be served with crusty bread or crackers, which can complement its creamy texture. A light salad on the side would round out the meal nicely without being too heavy.
what to serve with Corn Chowder
Corn chowder pairs well with a variety of side dishes. A fresh garden salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the chowder. You can toss greens with a simple vinaigrette for a bright note.
If you’re looking for something heartier, serve the chowder alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or toasted bread. The cheesy, warm goodness of grilled cheese makes an excellent match.
Corn chowder also go well with a side of baked potatoes or simple roasted vegetables. The flavors blend seamlessly without overwhelming the dish, allowing the chowder to shine as the main attraction.
how to store Corn Chowder
Storing leftover corn chowder is easy. First, allow the chowder to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chowder. Pour the cooled chowder into freezer-safe containers leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Heat the chowder gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened too much.
tips to make Corn Chowder
To elevate your corn chowder, consider a few helpful tips. Use fresh corn when it’s available for a sweeter flavor. If using frozen corn, make sure to allow it to defrost properly before adding it to the pot.
Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook. The right amount of salt and spices can make a huge difference in flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs like basil or rosemary for a twist.
When making a thicker chowder, remember that blending part of the mixture will create a creamier texture. Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding diced jalapeños for some extra heat.
variation
Corn chowder can be easily customized to match your taste. For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or diced smoked sausage along with the bacon. If you want it to be vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead.
You can also consider using different types of cheese, like cheddar, to enrich the chowder even more. For a richer flavor, you can substitute the half-and-half with heavy cream.
If you prefer a Mexican twist, add black beans, diced tomatoes, and spices like cumin and coriander. Toppings like avocado or cilantro can bring freshness to the dish.
best time to make Corn Chowder
Corn chowder can be enjoyed year-round, but it is particularly delightful in the cooler months. Fall is the perfect season as corn is in full harvest. The warm, creamy nature of the chowder provides comfort as temperatures drop.
However, many people enjoy corn chowder during summer barbecues, where its refreshing taste complements grilled meats and fresh salads. It’s a great option when you’ve got a good supply of fresh corn and want to create a light meal.
Whenever you decide to make it, the chowder comforts and nourishes, making it a beloved choice for many.
common mistakes to avoid
While making corn chowder is simple, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. One issue can be texture; overcooking the potatoes can lead to mushiness. Make sure to check them regularly while they cook.
Another mistake is failing to balance flavors. Be sure to taste the chowder as it cooks, adjusting the salt and spices when needed. If the chowder tastes bland, it may need more seasoning.
Lastly, avoid rushing the cooking time. Each step, from sautéing to simmering, is important. Allow time for flavors to meld together to create that comforting bowl of chowder everyone loves.
nutritional notes
Corn chowder can be a nourishing dish. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals from the corn, celery, and potatoes. The addition of bacon and half-and-half does bring in some fat, so consider using lighter options if you’re looking for lower calories.
For a more nutrient-dense option, try adding beans or extra vegetables. This enhances the chowder’s fiber content, making it a heartier meal.
Overall, it’s a balanced dish that can be part of a healthy eating plan when enjoyed in moderation.
FAQs
Can I make corn chowder ahead of time?
Yes, corn chowder can be made ahead of time. It’s even more flavorful the next day as the ingredients have time to mingle. Just be cautious when reheating!
Can I freeze corn chowder?
Absolutely! After cooling completely, you can freeze corn chowder in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
What can I substitute for half-and-half?
If you don’t have half-and-half, you can use heavy cream for richer chowder, or a mixture of milk and cream to achieve a similar texture. Non-dairy milk can also be used for a lighter version.
conclusion
Corn chowder is a delightful dish that promises comfort and satisfaction in each bowl. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your collection. Whether served on a chilly night or a warm summer day, this chowder brings joy to everyone who tastes it.
Feel free to customize it with various ingredients and toppings to match your flavor preferences. The versatility and deliciousness of corn chowder make it a meal that you can continuously enjoy, share, and adapt. Gather your ingredients and start cooking this comforting favorite today!
