Creamy Corn Chowder is the epitome of comfort food, with its rich, creamy base, sweet corn, and savory bacon. This recipe is perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. The chowder is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your tastes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious soup.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional, for color and sweetness)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
- Render Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon is crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain and Remove:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Cook Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion, celery, and red bell pepper (if using) to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, just until fragrant.
3. Add the Corn and Potatoes:
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the corn kernels and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
4. Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in Broth:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the chowder simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Make It Creamy:
- Add Cream:
- Stir in the heavy cream or whole milk and dried thyme. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Season:
- Taste the chowder and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
6. Thicken the Chowder (Optional):
- Prepare a Slurry:
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, mix 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry.
- Incorporate Slurry:
- Stir the slurry into the chowder and cook for another 5 minutes until the chowder thickens.
7. Finish and Serve:
- Add Bacon Back:
- Stir the crispy bacon pieces back into the chowder, saving a few pieces for garnish if desired.
- Garnish:
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the chowder hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for Perfect Chowder:
- Texture Variation: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the chowder. Blend until you reach the desired consistency, but leave some chunks for texture.
- Corn Options: Fresh corn offers the best sweetness, but frozen corn is a convenient and effective alternative. If using canned corn, make sure to drain it well.
- Custom Add-ins: Feel free to add additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition. You can also stir in some cooked chicken or ham for extra protein.
- Storage: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Creamy Corn Chowder is a versatile and comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich, creamy base and a blend of sweet corn and savory bacon, this chowder is sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed on a crisp fall day or any time you need a cozy meal, this chowder delivers both flavor and comfort. Enjoy making this delicious soup at home and savor the hearty goodness it has to offer!
