Comfort in a Bowl: Smoked Ham, Potato, and Corn Chowder Recipe
Introduction:
On cold, blustery days, few things offer as much comfort as a steaming bowl of hearty soup. Enter smoked ham, potato, and corn chowder—a rich and flavorful concoction that warms the soul with every spoonful. Bursting with tender chunks of smoked ham, creamy potatoes, and sweet corn, this chowder is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozying up indoors. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of comforting goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup smoked ham, diced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) creamed corn
- 1 can (15 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Cube the smoked ham, potatoes, onions, celery, and carrots.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Ham and Potatoes:
- Stir in the diced smoked ham and potatoes. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Make a Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the ham and vegetable mixture. Stir to coat and cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Simmer:
- Bring the chowder to a simmer and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, usually around 15-20 minutes.
7. Add Corn and Milk:
- Stir in the creamed corn, drained whole kernel corn, and milk. Continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes.
8. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
9. Serve:
- Ladle the smoked ham, potato, and corn chowder into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
10. Enjoy:
- Serve the chowder hot and savor the comforting flavors of smoked ham, creamy potatoes, and sweet corn.
Conclusion:
This Smoked Ham, Potato, and Corn Chowder is more than just a soup—it’s a hug in a bowl. With its rich, creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dinner or a soul-warming lunch, this chowder is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. So grab a spoon, dive in, and let the comforting flavors whisk you away to a place of cozy contentment.
FAQs:
- Can I use other types of ham instead of smoked ham?
- Yes, you can use other types of ham, such as cooked ham or ham steak, but keep in mind that the smoky flavor of the smoked ham adds a distinctive taste to the chowder.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
- Absolutely! You can omit the smoked ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian version of this chowder. For a vegan option, use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.
- How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
- To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover chowder in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
- How do I reheat the chowder?
- Reheat the chowder gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until warm.
- Can I add other vegetables to the chowder?
- Certainly! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as peas, bell peppers, or spinach, for added flavor and nutrition.
Tips:
- Use high-quality smoked ham: The quality of the smoked ham will greatly impact the flavor of the chowder. Opt for a good-quality ham with a rich smoky flavor for best results.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can add more flour or cornstarch to the roux. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more chicken broth or milk.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes: Be mindful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can become mushy. Aim for tender yet still slightly firm potatoes for the perfect texture.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or chives make a beautiful and flavorful garnish for the chowder. Their vibrant color and fresh taste add a lovely finishing touch to the dish.
- Let flavors meld: For the best flavor, allow the chowder to sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more harmonious taste.
- Serve with crusty bread: A slice of warm crusty bread or a side of crackers pairs perfectly with this chowder, allowing you to soak up every last bit of deliciousness.
With these FAQs and tips, you’re ready to create a delicious batch of smoked ham, potato, and corn chowder that will warm both body and soul. Enjoy the comforting flavors and cozy warmth of this hearty soup on cold days or any time you crave a comforting meal.