SOUP
Creamy Corn Chowder
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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:
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1. Cook the Bacon:
- 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:
- 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.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux:
- 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:
- Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- 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:
- 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:
- 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:
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with the crispy bacon, chopped chives, and oyster crackers or croutons.
- 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!