Corn chowder

Corn Chowder

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A bowl of corn chowder garnished with parsley.

Corn chowder is a type of chowder, a thick soup or stew often prepared with milk or cream and thickened with broken crackers, crushed ship biscuit, or a roux. Corn chowder is a popular dish in North American cuisine, particularly in the United States and Canada.

Ingredients

The primary ingredient in corn chowder is corn, which can be fresh, frozen, or canned. Other common ingredients include:

• Potatoes
• Onions
• Celery
• Carrots
• Bacon or ham
• Butter
• Milk or cream
• Chicken broth or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper

Optional ingredients may include bell peppers, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Some variations may also include seafood such as clams or shrimp.

Preparation

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Corn chowder being prepared in a pot.

To prepare corn chowder, the following steps are typically followed:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by cooking diced bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots to the pot and sauté until the onions are translucent.

2. Add Potatoes and Corn: Stir in diced potatoes and corn kernels, cooking for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

3. Simmer with Broth: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.

4. Thicken the Chowder: Add milk or cream to the pot, stirring to combine. If a thicker consistency is desired, a slurry of flour and water can be added.

5. Season and Serve: Season the chowder with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs. Serve hot, garnished with the reserved bacon and fresh parsley.

Variations

Corn chowder can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Some popular variations include:

• Vegetarian Corn Chowder: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Corn Chowder: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Seafood Corn Chowder: Incorporate clams, shrimp, or crab meat for a seafood twist.

Cultural Significance

Corn chowder is a comforting dish often associated with New England cuisine, where chowders are a staple. It is particularly popular during the fall and winter months when warm, hearty meals are desired. Corn chowder is also a common offering at soup kitchens and community gatherings due to its simplicity and ability to feed large groups.

Related Pages

• Chowder
• New England Clam Chowder
• Soup
• North American Cuisine