What To Know
- This classic dish combines the sweet crunch of corn, the savory smokiness of bacon, and a velvety broth to create a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.
- For a spicier chowder, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal on a chilly evening or a cozy dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of our delectable corn chowder with bacon recipe. This classic dish combines the sweet crunch of corn, the savory smokiness of bacon, and a velvety broth to create a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. Let’s dive into the kitchen and embark on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15-ounce) cans cream-style corn
- 2 (15-ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add the onion and garlic to the same pot and sauté in the bacon fat until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Corn: Stir in the cream-style corn and whole kernel corn. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Thicken the Chowder: Whisk in the half-and-half. If desired, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the chowder further.
6. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Season to Taste: Season the chowder with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the corn chowder into bowls and top with crispy bacon and chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips for the Perfect Corn Chowder
- Use fresh corn for the best flavor. If fresh corn is unavailable, frozen corn is a good substitute.
- Don’t overcook the corn. It should still have a slight crunch.
- If you don’t have half-and-half, you can use milk instead.
- For a spicier chowder, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Serve the corn chowder with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Variations
- Seafood Corn Chowder: Add cooked shrimp, crab, or scallops to the chowder for a seafood twist.
- Vegetable Corn Chowder: Add chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes to the chowder for a more hearty and vegetable-packed version.
- Creamy Corn Chowder: Blend half of the chowder until smooth for a velvety texture.
- Spicy Corn Chowder: Add chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the chowder for a kick of heat.
Pairing Suggestions
- Salads: Serve the corn chowder with a fresh green salad or a Caesar salad.
- Main Courses: Pair the chowder with grilled chicken, salmon, or a vegetarian frittata.
- Sides: Cornbread, buttermilk biscuits, or crusty bread are excellent accompaniments to the chowder.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
Corn chowder with bacon is the epitome of comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal on a chilly evening or a cozy dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the chowder up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the chowder?
A: Yes, you can freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use frozen corn?
A: Yes, you can use frozen corn in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the chowder.
