Creamy Corn Chowder

Creamy Corn Chowder

Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
• Oyster crackers or croutons, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

1. Add the unsalted butter to the pot with the bacon fat. Once melted, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Make the Roux:

1. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook the flour for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.

4. Add Broth and Potatoes:

1. Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Add the Corn:

1. Stir in the corn kernels (if using frozen corn, no need to thaw). Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.

6. Finish with Cream:

1. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Allow the chowder to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).

7. Serve:

1. Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with the crispy bacon, chopped chives, and oyster crackers or croutons.
2. Serve hot, with additional toppings like shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Tips:

• Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is ideal for this recipe, but frozen or canned corn works well too.
• Broth: For a richer flavor, use a combination of chicken broth and milk instead of just broth.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this chowder.

This Creamy Corn Chowder is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy dinner, especially during the colder months. Enjoy!