Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, this Vegan Corn Chowder has your name written all over it! There’s just something magical about a creamy, hearty soup that warms the soul. This chowder is not only incredibly satisfying but also packed with fresh flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites.

What makes this chowder special is its rich texture and delightful sweetness from the corn. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Creamy Comfort: The combination of coconut milk and cream creates a velvety texture that’s simply divine.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet corn and creamy base, so it’s a hit with everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This chowder stores well in the fridge, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer or as a main course—either way, it’s sure to impress!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Vegan Corn Chowder is simple and straightforward. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store—no fancy items here! Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Chowder

• 5 Corn on the Cob (or 4.5 cups (738g) Frozen Corn or Canned Corn, Drained)
• 3 Tablespoons Vegan Butter
• 1 Medium Onion (White, Yellow or Brown, Chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Crushed Garlic
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1/2 cup All Purpose Flour (63g)
• 2 cups Vegetable Stock (480ml)
• 28 ounces Canned Light Coconut Milk (800ml, 2 cans) Unsweetened
• 14 ounces Canned Coconut Cream (400ml, 1 can) Unsweetened
• 2 Large Potatoes (1.2 pounds / 600g) peeled and cubed
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 3/4 cup Green Onions (Chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• Black Pepper to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to personalize your chowder:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you like a kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
• Protein Boost: Add some cooked chickpeas or lentils to make this chowder even heartier.

How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by slicing the corn off the cob. Stand each cob in a bowl and carefully cut downwards to collect all those juicy kernels. Don’t forget to break the cobs in half after removing the corn; we’ll use them later for extra flavor!

Step 2: Sauté Onions

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add in your chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and translucent. This step is crucial—it brings out their natural sweetness, which will enhance the overall flavor of your chowder.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme

Next up, toss in the crushed garlic and dried thyme. Continue sautéing until fragrant; this will make your kitchen smell amazing! These aromatics lay the foundation for a rich base.

Step 4: Create the Base

Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine everything. Then pour in the vegetable stock along with both cans of coconut milk and cream. Whisk until smooth—this creamy mixture is what makes our chowder so indulgent!

Step 5: Incorporate Potatoes and Cobs

Now add your cubed potatoes into the pot along with those corn cobs we set aside earlier and drop in that bay leaf too. These ingredients will simmer together beautifully; just cover the pot and let them cook until the potatoes are tender—about 25 minutes.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove those corn cobs and bay leaf once cooking time is up. It’s time to add that fresh corn we prepared earlier. Let it cook for just five more minutes before stirring in chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Ladle generous portions into bowls and top with extra green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper if you like. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy every warm spoonful of your homemade Vegan Corn Chowder!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making vegan corn chowder is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your soup to the next level!

• Use Fresh Corn When Possible: Fresh corn from the cob provides a sweet and juicy flavor that frozen or canned corn may lack. If you can, pick up some fresh corn at your local market for the best taste.

• Sauté Your Onions Thoroughly: Spending an extra few minutes sautéing the onions until they’re translucent enhances their natural sweetness, adding depth to the chowder.

• Adjust Thickness to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot before adding in the fresh corn. This will create a creamy texture without needing additional dairy.

• Experiment with Herbs and Spices: While thyme is classic, feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust quantities so they don’t overpower the dish.

• Store Leftovers Properly: To keep your chowder fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of vegetable stock if it thickens too much.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving vegan corn chowder is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Fresh Chopped Cilantro: This adds a burst of color and freshness that enhances the overall flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado not only complements the chowder’s texture but also adds healthy fats.
• Croutons: A sprinkle of crunchy croutons provides a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into your chowder, garlic bread brings an irresistible crunch and flavor.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted vegetables can add a hearty touch and complement your meal beautifully.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer a nutritious and filling option alongside your chowder.

Enjoy crafting this delicious vegan corn chowder! It’s perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to have a delicious, comforting meal ready when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label and date the containers, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if the chowder has thickened too much.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Vegan Corn Chowder without fresh corn?

Absolutely! You can use frozen or canned corn instead. Just ensure you measure out the appropriate quantity—about 4.5 cups of frozen corn or drained canned corn will work perfectly.

How can I make my Vegan Corn Chowder creamier?

To enhance creaminess, consider adding more coconut milk or using a high-speed blender to puree part of the chowder after cooking. This will give it a luscious consistency while still being vegan!

Is Vegan Corn Chowder gluten-free?

Yes! To make this Vegan Corn Chowder gluten-free, simply substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How do I store Vegan Corn Chowder leftovers?

Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for later use. Just follow the reheating instructions provided above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s not only comforting but also simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for gatherings. Enjoy every creamy spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try. Happy cooking!