Corn Chowder is a delicious, hearty dish that is perfect for cold winter days. This creamy, flavorful soup is full of sweet corn, potatoes, and bacon, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a show-stopping potluck dish, corn chowder is the perfect dish to serve.
Ingredients for Corn Chowder
The ingredients for corn chowder are simple and easy to find. You’ll need: bacon, onion, garlic, potatoes, sweet corn, butter, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and salt and pepper to taste. You’ll also need a blender or food processor to blend the soup.
Instructions for Making Corn Chowder
The first step in making corn chowder is to cook the bacon. Place the bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat and cook until it is crisp. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Next, add the onion and garlic to the bacon grease and cook until the vegetables are soft and translucent. Then, add the potatoes, sweet corn, butter, flour, and chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
Once the soup has simmered for 10 minutes, remove it from the heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Transfer the soup to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Then, stir in the heavy cream, bacon, and salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the corn chowder hot with a sprinkle of parsley or chives and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!
Tips for Making the Perfect Corn Chowder
When making corn chowder, it’s important to use fresh ingredients. Fresh sweet corn is sweeter and more flavorful than frozen corn, so try to find fresh corn when possible. If fresh corn is not available, frozen corn can be used instead.
It’s also important to use a high-quality chicken broth in the soup. This will give the soup a richer flavor and better texture. For an even richer flavor, try using a low-sodium broth or stock.
Variations on Corn Chowder
There are many ways to customize corn chowder. Try adding different vegetables, such as carrots, celery, bell peppers, or even squash. For added protein, try adding cooked chicken or shrimp. You can also add a variety of herbs and spices for extra flavor. Some great additions are parsley, thyme, oregano, and chili powder.
FAQs About Corn Chowder
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the container in the microwave and heat until warmed through.
Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Simply prepare the soup as directed and let cool before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, then reheat when ready to serve.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn in place of fresh or frozen. Be sure to drain the corn before adding it to the soup.
Can I make the soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make the soup in a slow cooker. Simply cook the bacon, onion, garlic, and potatoes in a skillet, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, cover, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
