Flavorful Chipotle Corn Chowder Recipe (Become A Soup Chef In Minutes)

Immerse yourself in the culinary journey that is chipotle corn chowder recipe, a symphony of flavors that’ll leave you bewitched. A heartwarming medley of sweet corn kernels, the smoky undertones of Chipotle, and the rich creaminess create a distinctive taste sensation. 

This culinary creation is a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for cool evenings or whenever your soul craves something satisfying. 

Explore our step-by-step guide to crafting this recipe that pushes boundaries, melding classic comfort food with a tantalizing twist. This chowder is more than just a dish; it’s a flavorful adventure waiting to happen. Savor every spoonful.

What Is Chipotle Corn Chowder?

chipotle corn chowder recipe is a creamy, hearty soup that combines the sweet crunch of corn kernels with the smoky spice of chipotle peppers. Often made with ingredients such as onions, garlic, potatoes, and Cream, the chowder offers a comforting blend of textures and flavors. 

The Chipotle, a smoke-dried jalapeno, lends a unique depth and warmth to the soup, turning it from a traditional corn chowder into a bold, unforgettable dish. It’s a delicious fusion of comforting creaminess and palate-pleasing spice.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

The Chipotle Corn Chowder recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences:

• Keto: To make this recipe keto-friendly, you can replace the corn with lower-carb vegetables such as cauliflower or broccoli. Use heavy Cream to maintain the soup’s richness, and use a keto-friendly oil like coconut or olive oil.

• Paleo: Use ghee instead of vegetable or canola oil for a Paleo-friendly version. Substitute the corn with a Paleo-approved vegetable like zucchini or cauliflower. Swap the heavy Cream for coconut cream or almond milk for creaminess.

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the gluten-free chicken stock. Always double-check labels to ensure no hidden sources of gluten.

• Whole30: To adapt this recipe for Whole30, use ghee instead of vegetable or canola oil. Substitute the corn (as it’s not Whole30-approved) with a starchy vegetable like sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Use coconut cream instead of heavy Cream.

• Vegetarian and Vegan: Replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version. The heavy Cream can be substituted with coconut milk or cashew cream for creaminess. Always check that the vegetable broth and adobo sauce are vegan; some brands may include animal products.

Recipe Directions

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and minced chipotle peppers to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes.
• Add the frozen corn kernels to the pot and stir. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the corn is tender.
• Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend about half of the soup until smooth. This will help thicken the chowder while leaving some chunky texture. Be careful when blending hot liquids to avoid splattering.
• Return the blended mixture to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
• Serve the Chipotle Corn Chowder hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. You can also add additional toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, or a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like the zucchini ,carrots, bell peppers, or to increase the nutritional profile and add different textures.
• Proteins: Adding shredded chicken, bacon, or ham can provide an extra layer of flavor and make the chowder a more filling meal. For a vegetarian protein boost, consider adding beans like black beans or cannellini beans.
• Spices: You can play around with the spices. For instance, add cumin for an earthy flavor, smoked paprika for extra smokiness, or cayenne pepper for more heat.

Add-Ons

• Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can add a nice salty bite and creamy texture.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or green onions add color and freshness. If you enjoy a tangy flavor, squeeze some fresh lime juice on top before serving.
• Crunchy Toppings: For a crunchy contrast, consider adding homemade croutons, crushed tortilla chips, or toasted pumpkin seeds.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can provide a cool, tangy contrast to the chowder’s heat. Vegan alternatives can be used as a dairy-free option.
• Avocado: Diced avocado provides a creamy, cooling counterbalance to the spicy soup.
• Bacon: Crispy, cooked bacon adds a deliciously savory and crunchy element.

Can I Make Chipotle Corn Chowder In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

You can prepare the Chipotle Corn Chowder recipe for a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Here are general guidelines for each:

Slow Cooker

• Sauté the onions in a pan with oil until they’re translucent. Add the corn and thyme leaves, stir to combine, and cook for 2 minutes.
• Transfer this mixture to your slow cooker, and add 3 cups of the chicken stock.
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• While the soup is cooking, whisk together the chipotles and cream, and set aside.
• After cooking, use an immersion blender to pureé the soup to your desired texture right in the slow cooker. If you don’t have an immersion blender, allow the soup to cool and then blend in a stand blender or food processor in batches, returning it to the slow cooker afterward.
• Stir in the chipotle cream, and add salt and pepper to taste. If you want a thinner soup, add some or all of the remaining 1 cup of stock.

Instant Pot

• Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat the oil. Add the onions and sauté until they’re translucent. Add the corn and thyme leaves, stir to combine, and cook for 2 minutes.
• Add 3 cups of the chicken stock to the pot. Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
• While the soup is cooking, whisk together the chipotles and cream, and set aside.
• Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
• Use an immersion blender to pureé the soup to your desired texture right in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, allow the soup to cool and then blend in a stand blender or food processor in batches, returning it to the Instant Pot afterward.
• Stir in the chipotle cream, and add salt and pepper to taste. If you want a thinner soup, add some or all of the remaining 1 cup of stock.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can certainly use store-bought broth or stock for convenience in your Chipotle Corn Chowder, and many recipes often do. When choosing a store-bought option, look for low-sodium versions so you have more control over the overall salt content in your dish.

However, if you have the time and ingredients, making your chicken stock can elevate your soup’s flavor. Homemade broth allows you to control all the flavors and ensures there are no additives or preservatives that are often found in commercial broths.

If you choose to make your own, you can do so by simmering chicken bones with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery and seasonings like bay leaves, peppercorns, and fresh herbs for several hours. 

After simmering, you strain the mixture to get a flavorful, clean broth. Remember, homemade broth can be made in large batches and frozen in smaller portions for use in future recipes.

How To Serve ?

Serving Chipotle Corn Chowder involves a few steps to ensure it’s presented beautifully and enjoyed at its best:

• Serve Hot: Chipotle Corn Chowder is best served hot, right after it’s cooked.
• Individual Bowls: Ladle the chowder into individual bowls or soup mugs.
• Garnishing: Garnish the chowder with your chosen toppings. This could include fresh chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or crunchy tortilla strips. 
• Accompaniments: While the chowder can stand alone as a meal, it also pairs well with a fresh salad or a crusty piece of bread for dipping.
• Utensils: Provide a spoon for the chowder and possibly a fork if your toppings include larger pieces that are easier to eat with a fork.

Perfect Side Dishes

Chipotle Corn Chowder is a hearty dish that’s quite satisfying on its own. However, if you’re looking to round out the meal with a side dish or two, here are a few suggestions:

• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy chowder.
• Crusty Bread: A piece of crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, can be great for dipping in the chowder and adds a pleasing textural element.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a truly comforting meal, serve your Chipotle Corn Chowder with a classic grilled cheese sandwich—the crunchy, cheesy sandwich pairs perfectly with the smooth, spicy chowder.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, can add a different flavor and texture to the meal, complementing the creaminess of the chowder.
• Cornbread: Cornbread and corn chowder make a fitting pair. You could even add a bit of jalapeño to the cornbread for a spicy kick that matches the chipotle in the chowder.

Storage And Make Ahead 

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chipotle corn chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• Thawing: To thaw frozen chipotle corn chowder, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly from frozen over low heat, stirring frequently.

• Make Ahead: This soup is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the recipe as instructed, cool it completely, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, before serving.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Chipotle Corn Chowder Quesadillas: Spread a layer of leftover chipotle corn chowder between two tortillas along with some shredded cheese. Pan-fry until crispy and golden brown for a delicious quesadilla.
• Chipotle Corn Chowder Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with leftover chipotle corn chowder. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
• Chipotle Corn Chowder Pasta: Mix the chowder with cooked pasta for a creamy and flavorful pasta dish. Add some cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Chipotle Corn Chowder Nachos: Spoon the chowder over tortilla chips and top with shredded cheese, black beans, diced tomatoes, and avocado for loaded nachos.
• Chipotle Corn Chowder Empanadas: Fill empanada dough with leftover chipotle corn chowder, fold them over, and bake until golden brown and crispy

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