Deliciously Easy Ham and Corn Chowder Recipe
Recipe Overview
When the days get a little chillier, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of homemade Ham and Corn Chowder. This rich and creamy dish, brimming with tender pieces of ham, sweet corn, and hearty potatoes, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Originating from the Northeastern United States, chowders have a long history dating back to the 18th century when fishermen created thick soups using local resources and whatever they had on hand. This easy Ham and Corn Chowder recipe not only brings cozy vibes but also offers you an opportunity to create a delicious meal from scratch that the whole family will love.
What sets this chowder apart is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or exploring options for a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Perfectly balanced between savory and sweet, this Ham and Corn Chowder can be customized to meet various dietary needs. From a traditional homemade chowder to a vegan twist, you’ll find that this recipe adapts to everyone’s tastes. Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
To create this delightful Ham and Corn Chowder, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Base Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
– 1 ½ cups ham, diced (preferably cooked or leftover ham)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Seasonings:
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Red pepper flakes, to taste
Possible Substitutions:
– For a dairy-free version, use a blend of almond milk and coconut cream instead of whole milk.
– Substitute ham with cooked, crumbled bacon or smoked turkey for a different flavor.
– For a vegetarian option, omit the ham entirely and replace it with a mixture of vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Equipment List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious chowder:
– Large pot or Dutch oven
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Chopping board
– Knife
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Ladle for serving
– Blender (optional, for a smoother texture)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
Tip: The smell of garlic and onions sautéing in butter is a surefire way to build anticipation for this delicious chowder.
2. Add the Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for about 4-5 minutes. This helps to soften the potatoes before adding the broth.
3. Incorporate Corn and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
Visual cue: The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork, yet not mushy.
4. Stir in Ham and Corn: Add the diced ham and corn to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm the ham and incorporate the flavors.
5. Creaminess Factor: Pour in the milk or half-and-half, stirring to mix it evenly. Allow the chowder to simmer gently but do not boil. You want the milk to warm and thicken without curdling.
6. Season to Taste: Add salt, pepper, and optional seasonings to your liking. The smoked paprika and thyme add fantastic depth to the chowder, so don’t hold back!
Sensory note: You’ll know it’s ready when the chowder is deliciously aromatic, creamy, and inviting.
7. Blend for Smoothness (Optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, carefully blend a portion of the chowder using an immersion blender, or transfer a few cups to a regular blender and pulse until smooth. Combine it back in with the rest of the chowder for a creamy finish.
8. Serve & Enjoy: Use a ladle to serve the chowder in bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. The creamy texture combined with the flecks of vibrant corn and ham creates a beautiful presentation.
Special Notes
– Storage Tips: Leftover chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier as the days go on!
– Reheating Instructions: Reheat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
– Troubleshooting: If the chowder is too thick for your liking, simply add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or broth until the desired texture is achieved. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Variations and Customizations
This chowder is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous variations to accommodate different dietary preferences.
– Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.
– Vegan Ham and Corn Chowder: For a vegan version, substitute the ham with chickpeas or smoked tempeh, and use coconut milk for richness. The seasonings will help replicate the savory flavor that ham provides.
– Extra Ingredients: Consider adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even jalapeños for a slight kick. A splash of lime juice at the end can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (Optional)
Estimated breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
– Calories: 340
– Protein: 15g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fiber: 3g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and measurements. Adjust as needed to fit dietary goals.
Engaging Visual Details
As you make this Ham and Corn Chowder, you will be enveloped by delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen. The golden hues of the corn, the soft, white potatoes, and fine flecks of ham merge beautifully in your pot. Each spoonful will bring warmth, with creaminess that coats the tongue, while the subtle tang of the broth elevates the flavors, inviting you to take another bite. The chowder’s inviting texture and rich color make for a stunning presentation.
Images or videos illustrating each step would be helpful here, especially visually capturing the vibrant colors and textures of the chowder at various stages.
Conclusion
Now that you have this easy Ham and Corn Chowder recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to bring warmth and comfort to your dining table. Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it also packs a punch in flavor and can easily be customized to suit various dietary restrictions. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the wholesome goodness of homemade chowder straight from your kitchen.
Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below to share your thoughts or variations! Share your delicious chowder photos on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish! We can’t wait to see your creations!
