Ham and Potato Corn Chowder

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Introduction:

Embrace the cozy charm of a comforting bowl of Ham and Potato Corn Chowder. This delightful chowder combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and sweet corn in a creamy broth infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a hearty and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons oil or butter
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
  • 1/4 cup flour (or rice flour for gluten-free option)
  • 2 cups ham broth or chicken broth
  • 2 cups milk (or heavy cream)
  • 1 1/2 pounds potatoes, diced small (optional: peeled)
  • 8 ounces ham, diced
  • 1 cup corn
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until tender, about 8-10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to develop flavor and aroma.
  2. Flavor Infusion: Mix in the chopped garlic and thyme, stirring to combine. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook until the flour is lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes, creating a roux that will thicken the chowder.
  3. Building the Base: Slowly pour in the ham broth, deglazing the pan as you go to incorporate any browned bits from the bottom. Add the milk (or heavy cream) and diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Incorporating Ham and Corn: Stir in the diced ham and corn, allowing them to heat through in the creamy broth. Simmer for a few more minutes to ensure all ingredients are warmed and the flavors are well combined.
  5. Season to Perfection: Taste the chowder and season with salt and pepper to your liking, adjusting the seasoning as needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
  6. Serve with Joy: Ladle the piping hot chowder into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley, if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Note: For an extra indulgent touch, consider topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Tip for Perfect Chowder:

Achieving the perfect consistency and flavor for your Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is easy with a few helpful tips:

  1. Customize Your Chowder: Feel free to customize the chowder to suit your taste preferences. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or peas for more color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles.
  2. Creamy Texture: For a creamier chowder, use heavy cream instead of milk. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to thicken the broth while still maintaining texture.
  3. Enhance Flavor: To enhance the flavor of the chowder, consider adding a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. These simple additions can elevate the taste and aroma of the dish.

  1. Leftover Ham: If you have leftover ham from a holiday meal or dinner, it’s perfect for this recipe. The salty, savory flavor of ham adds depth to the chowder, making it even more delicious.
  2. Storage and Reheating: Ham and Potato Corn Chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. When reheating, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat to prevent curdling. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

Conclusion:

With its hearty ingredients and creamy texture, Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is a soul-warming dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dinner on a cold evening or served as a delicious lunchtime treat, this chowder is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart with every spoonful. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting embrace of this classic recipe!

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