30-Minutes Smoky Corn Chowder Recipe – A Creamy Flavor

In the world of comfort food, a symphony of flavors exists – the Smoky Corn Chowder Recipe . A decadent blend of sweet corn and smoky undertones, this dish serves up a delightful surprise. 

Each spoonful immerses you in a harmony of textures, from the velvety broth to the satisfying crunch of corn kernels. Its warmth cocooned your senses, evoking images of cozy fireplaces and shared laughter.

Unveiling its beauty requires no culinary mastery, only an adventurous palate and a penchant for heartwarming goodness. This chowder isn’t just a meal; it’s a gastronomic journey of comforting indulgence.

What Is Smoky Corn Chowder?

Smoky Corn Chowder is a flavorful and hearty soup, traditionally composed of sweet corn and vegetables simmered in a creamy broth.

It gets its unique ‘smoky’ twist from including ingredients such as smoked paprika or smoked ham hock. 

The soup is often garnished with crispy bacon or fresh herbs for an extra layer of complexity. This dish, a comfort food staple, is renowned for its rich, velvety texture and the beautiful contrast between the sweetness of the corn and the smoky undertones.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

The Smoky Corn Chowder recipe can be adapted to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences.

• Keto: Use heavy cream to replace corn and skim milk with lower-carb vegetables like cauliflower. Use bacon and add more high-fat ingredients, such as avocado or cheese, as a garnish.
• Paleo: Swap the traditional dairy cream base for full-fat coconut milk. Use fresh sweet corn, which is Paleo-friendly, and replace processed bacon with homemade smoked meat.
• Gluten-Free: The Smoky Corn Chowder is naturally gluten-free, but ensure all processed ingredients like chicken broth and bacon are certified gluten-free.
• Whole30: Use homemade chicken broth, fresh corn, and full-fat coconut milk instead of dairy. Be sure to choose Whole30-compliant bacon without added sugars or nitrates.
• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use a drop or two of liquid smoke to provide that smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Vegan: Follow the vegetarian modifications and replace dairy with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy texture. Top it with vegan cheese and fresh herbs.

Recipe Directions

• 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, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
• In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
• Add the diced bell peppers to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
• Stir in the frozen corn kernels, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to toast the spices and coat the vegetables.
• Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• 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 texture. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
• Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the milk and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chowder is heated through.
• Serve the Smoky Corn Chowder hot, garnished with crispy bacon and chopped chives or green onions.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Seafood Chowder: Incorporate flaked cooked crabmeat, clams, or cooked shrimp to make a luxurious seafood chowder.
• Spicy Chowder: Add a diced jalapeño or habanero pepper along with the garlic for an extra kick.
• Vegetable Chowder: Add other veggies like bell peppers, celery, or carrots for additional texture and nutrition.

Add-Ons

• Cheese: Stir in some sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a delightful cheesy twist.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or cilantro can add brightness and depth.
• Protein: Chicken or ham could be a good addition to a meatier version.

Toppings

• Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add a savory crunch.
• Croutons: Garlic croutons can provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of grated cheddar or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Freshly chopped chives, parsley, or even cilantro provide a burst of new flavor and a splash of color.
• Cracked Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper adds flavor and gives a gourmet touch.

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

Smoky Corn Chowder can be adapted to be made in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot.

Slow Cooker

• In a skillet, cook the bacon until crisp, then transfer to a paper towel. Reserve some of the drippings to sauté the leek until soft.
• Transfer the bacon and leek to the slow cooker. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne, corn, broth, half-and-half, and milk.
• Set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. If you prefer a thicker chowder, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or carefully transfer it to a regular blender.
• Before serving, season with salt and pepper and garnish as desired.

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function, cook the bacon until crisp, then remove and reserve drippings. Sauté the leek in the drippings until soft.
• Add the garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne, sautéing for another minute. Add the corn, broth, half-and-half, and milk. Secure the lid and set to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
• Allow the pressure to release for 10 minutes naturally, then manually release any remaining pressure.
• If desired, blend a portion of the soup for a thicker consistency. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish before serving.

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

You can certainly use store-bought broth for convenience and ease. However, if you have the time and ingredients, making your own broth can be a great way to maximize flavor and control the ingredients in your dishes.

• Store-Bought Broth: This is a quick and easy option, especially if you’re short on time. However, selecting a high-quality brand for the best flavor is essential. Look for low-sodium versions so you have more control over the saltiness of your soup.
• Homemade Broth: Making your own chicken, vegetable, or seafood broth allows for the customization of flavor and the ability to control sodium levels. It can be more time-consuming but offers a depth of flavor that’s hard to match with store-bought versions.

How To Serve?

Smoky Corn Chowder is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, and each can add a delightful dimension to your meal. Here are a few suggestions on how to serve it best:

• As a Starter: Serve it in smaller bowls as a flavorful introduction to a main course. Pair with a light, crisp white wine if desired.
• Main Course: Serve larger portions with a side of crusty bread, a salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a heartier meal.
• Toppings: Toppings can add an exciting texture contrast and boost the flavors. Consider options like crumbled bacon, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro), a sprinkle of smoked paprika, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
• In a Bread Bowl: Consider serving your chowder in a bread bowl for a rustic presentation. Choose a sturdy variety like a sourdough round, hollow out the center, and ladle the chowder directly inside.
• Outdoor Gatherings: Chowder makes a great warming dish if you’re hosting an outdoor gathering in the cooler months. Serve in mugs for easy handling.

Perfect Side Dishes

Smoky Corn Chowder is a hearty and flavorful dish that can stand on its own, but a variety of side dishes can also complement it. Here are a few ideas:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the chowder and soaking up its creamy, flavorful broth.
• Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a nice contrast to the rich, smoky flavors of the chowder.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing offers a comforting, satisfying meal. You can add a gourmet twist with different cheese varieties or additions like avocado or tomato.
• Roasted Veggies: Simple, seasoned roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers can complement the chowder without overpowering it.
• Cornbread: Given the corn in the chowder, cornbread can be a thematic and tasty side dish.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can contrast refreshingly to the creamy chowder.
• Sautéed Greens: For a healthier option, consider a side of sautéed greens like spinach or Swiss chard.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Store: Once cooled, transfer the chowder into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the chowder in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the chowder up to 2 days in advance, excluding garnishes. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. This allows flavors to meld, enhancing the taste.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Transform leftovers into a creamy pasta dish by mixing the chowder with cooked pasta. The smoky flavors will infuse the pasta, creating a delicious and comforting meal.
• Use the chowder as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. Simply hollow out the peppers, fill them with the chowder, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
• Create a hearty breakfast hash by sautéing diced potatoes and onions until golden brown, then adding in chopped leftover chowder. Serve topped with a fried egg for a satisfying morning meal.
• Make savory cornbread muffins by mixing the chowder into your favorite cornbread batter before baking. The result is a moist and flavorful twist on traditional cornbread.

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