Sweetcorn Chowder Recipe

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This Sweetcorn Chowder is a creamy, comforting soup packed with the natural sweetness of corn, hearty potatoes, and flavorful vegetables. Perfect for chilly days, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients, yet provides a rich, layered flavor with every spoonful. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to make the best Sweetcorn Chowder, from selecting the right ingredients to serving suggestions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Comforting: The smooth, velvety texture of the chowder offers warmth and comfort.
2. Packed with Sweet Corn Flavor: Uses both fresh corn and creamed corn for a rich, full-bodied corn taste.
3. Versatile and Customizable: Easily modify the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or add additional vegetables.
4. Quick and Easy: This chowder is a simple, one-pot recipe that comes together in less than an hour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Dice the Vegetables: Dice the potatoes, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
2. Shuck and Cut the Corn: If using fresh corn, remove the husks and slice the kernels off the cob. You can also use canned or frozen corn for convenience.
3. Chop the Onion and Garlic: Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion, setting them aside for the base of the chowder.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat Butter and Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add Onion, Garlic, Carrots, and Celery: Add the chopped onion and garlic, followed by the diced carrots and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Corn

1. Add Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes, mixing well with the other vegetables.
2. Add Corn Kernels and Creamed Corn: Add the fresh or canned corn kernels and the creamed corn. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Season

1. Add Vegetable Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine all ingredients.
2. Add Thyme, Salt, Pepper, and Smoked Paprika: Season with thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring the chowder to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Chowder

1. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Lower the heat to medium-low and let the chowder simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
2. Stir Occasionally: Stir the chowder occasionally to prevent any ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Add Cream and Adjust Seasoning

1. Stir in Heavy Cream: Once the vegetables are fully cooked, add the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. The cream will make the chowder rich and silky.
2. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the chowder and adjust salt and pepper as needed. You can add more thyme or smoked paprika if you prefer stronger flavors.

Step 7: Puree Part of the Chowder (Optional)

1. Use an Immersion Blender: For a thicker, creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the chowder directly in the pot. Blend until you reach your desired consistency, leaving some chunky pieces for texture.
2. Alternatively, Use a Blender: If you don’t have an immersion blender, ladle about 2 cups of the chowder into a regular blender and blend until smooth. Return the blended portion to the pot and stir to combine.

Tips for the Perfect Sweetcorn Chowder

1. Use Fresh Corn for the Best Flavor: Fresh corn adds a natural sweetness to the chowder. If using canned or frozen, consider adding a bit of sugar to mimic fresh corn’s sweetness.
2. Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: To prevent them from becoming mushy, keep an eye on the potatoes and remove the chowder from the heat once they’re tender.
3. Control the Thickness: Adjust the consistency to your preference. If the chowder is too thick, add a bit more broth; if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
4. Experiment with Seasoning: The smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the corn, but feel free to try other spices like cumin or cayenne for a different flavor profile.

Variations

1. Bacon-Corn Chowder: Add crispy bacon bits either as a topping or cook them in the pot before the vegetables for a smoky base flavor.
2. Spicy Corn Chowder: Add diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Cheesy Corn Chowder: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy finish.
4. Seafood Corn Chowder: Add cooked shrimp, crab, or even chunks of cooked fish for a seafood variation. Add these ingredients just before serving to avoid overcooking.
5. Vegetable-Loaded Chowder: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

1. Bread Bowl: Serve the chowder in a crusty bread bowl for an extra-cozy touch.
2. With Bread or Crackers: Serve with crusty bread, oyster crackers, or garlic bread for dipping.
3. Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, chives, or green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor.
4. With a Side Salad: A light green salad or coleslaw complements the richness of the chowder.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, almond milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative. Coconut milk works well and adds a subtle sweetness.

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2. How can I make this chowder vegetarian or vegan?
Simply use vegetable broth and a plant-based cream alternative. Vegan butter can replace regular butter, and you can skip the bacon garnish or use vegan bacon bits.

3. What if I don’t have fresh corn?
Frozen or canned corn works well in this recipe. For frozen corn, let it thaw before adding; for canned, drain well.

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4. Can I make this chowder thicker?
Yes! Blend more of the soup to create a thicker consistency, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water.

5. How do I avoid overcooking the potatoes?
Cut the potatoes into even pieces and simmer just until they’re tender. Test them with a fork as you cook to prevent them from getting mushy.

Final Thoughts

This Sweetcorn Chowder is a rich and creamy comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozying up on a chilly day. The natural sweetness of corn, the heartiness of potatoes, and the flavor of herbs make this chowder a timeless favorite. Easy to make, customizable, and crowd-pleasing, this recipe is sure to become a go-to dish in your home. Enjoy!

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
25 minutes

Total Time
35 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, diced (optional)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon (if using):
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pot (or discard for a lighter soup).
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Add butter to the pot. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth:
   Add the diced potatoes and chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add Corn and Cream:
   Stir in the corn kernels, heavy cream (or milk), and smoked paprika if using. Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Blend for Creaminess:
   For a thicker chowder, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, carefully blend half of the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot.
6. Season and Serve:
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh chives or green onions, and top with crispy bacon if desired.

Notes

Make it Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth.

Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or grated cheddar cheese for richness.

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