Description
A creamy and comforting Summer Corn Chowder made with fresh corn, tender potatoes, and a blend of milk and cream, seasoned with smoked paprika and thyme, perfect for a cozy meal during warm months.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the butter and olive oil together in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the aromatics and stir well. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste and help thicken the chowder.
- Combine Main Ingredients: Add diced potatoes, fresh corn kernels, vegetable broth, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme into the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Add Dairy and Thicken: Stir in the whole milk and heavy cream. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Blend for Texture: For a creamier chowder, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, leave it as is for a chunkier consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chowder and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- Add cooked bacon or diced ham for extra flavor and protein.
- This chowder pairs excellently with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
- Using fresh corn enhances the sweetness and texture; canned corn can be substituted but may alter flavor.
