Roasted Corn Chowder

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This Roasted Corn Chowder blends the sweet smoky flavor of grilled corn with the creamy richness of potatoes, making each spoonful comforting and hearty. The smooth texture and bold flavors are elevated by the subtle sweetness of the corn and the addition of cream.

This chowder is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying. The natural sweetness of the corn, paired with the savory potatoes and smoky accents, creates a deliciously balanced soup that can be topped with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal.

Full Recipe:

6-8 ears fresh sweet corn, husks removed

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 cups water, divided
2 ribs celery, chopped

1 small onion, chopped
4-5 red potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
1 ½ cups heavy cream, divided

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat the grill. Brush 3-4 corn cobs with 2 tablespoons olive oil, and grill until the corn has dark grill marks (but not an overall char). Set aside to cool.

Cut kernels off the remaining ears of corn. Add them to a food processor or blender with 1 cup of water and puree until very smooth, about 2 minutes.
In a medium pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the celery and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are translucent and tender.
Add the corn puree, the remaining water, and the potatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Carefully cut kernels off the roasted corn cobs and puree with ½ cup heavy cream in a food processor or blender until somewhat smooth, about 30 seconds.
Add the roasted corn puree and remaining heavy cream to the pot, and simmer until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 680 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Roasted Corn Chowder: A Comforting and Versatile Dish

Corn chowder is a classic American dish known for its rich, creamy texture and hearty, satisfying flavors. But when roasted corn is introduced to the mix, the dish takes on a whole new level of depth and smokiness. Roasted Corn Chowder is a perfect blend of sweet, smoky corn and velvety potatoes, making it ideal for both fall gatherings and cozy nights at home. This soup is a true comfort food, yet it is versatile enough to fit many dietary preferences, from vegetarian to gluten-free to even vegan.

The Origins of Corn Chowder

Chowders, in general, have deep roots in American culinary tradition, especially in New England. They are often made with a combination of vegetables, seafood, and cream, creating a thick, flavorful soup. Corn chowder has been a staple in American kitchens since the early colonial days when corn was one of the primary crops grown in the United States.

The tradition of roasting corn dates back centuries, with Native American tribes utilizing roasted corn in their cooking long before European settlers arrived. The sweet, smoky flavor that roasting imparts to the corn makes it a perfect addition to a creamy soup like chowder, adding layers of complexity to a dish that might otherwise be one-dimensional.

Roasted Corn Chowder, specifically, is a more modern take on the traditional corn chowder, but it draws inspiration from these long-established techniques. Today, it’s a beloved recipe enjoyed across the country, especially during the fall months when fresh corn is in abundance and the weather starts to cool down.

A Hearty, Creamy Comfort Food

What sets Roasted Corn Chowder apart from other chowders is the use of grilled or roasted corn. Roasting the corn adds a layer of smokiness and caramelized sweetness that complements the creamy base of the chowder. When paired with the soft texture of potatoes and the mild sweetness of corn, the result is a comforting and hearty bowl of soup perfect for any occasion.

The beauty of chowder lies in its versatility. While the base of most corn chowders remains the same—corn, potatoes, cream, and sometimes bacon or other meats—there is a lot of room for variation. Depending on the region or the cook’s preferences, ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, garlic, and herbs can be added to suit the palate.

In addition to being a great comfort food, roasted corn chowder is often a great way to celebrate the flavors of the season. It can be enjoyed throughout the year, but it is particularly loved in the fall when corn is at its peak and the days start to cool down. It makes a perfect dish for family gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or as a starter to a cozy dinner party.

Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free

One of the great things about Roasted Corn Chowder is how adaptable it is for different dietary needs. With a few simple adjustments, this dish can be made vegetarian, vegan, and even gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of diets.

Vegetarian: Traditional roasted corn chowder often contains bacon or sausage, but this can easily be omitted or replaced with vegetable stock for a flavorful vegetarian version. Additionally, adding extra vegetables such as carrots, leeks, or bell peppers will make the chowder even heartier and satisfying.

Vegan: To make this chowder vegan-friendly, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, cashew cream, or other plant-based cream alternatives. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken stock, and avoid any dairy-based additions such as cheese or butter. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also be used to enhance the creamy flavor without compromising the dish’s heartiness.
Gluten-Free: Many chowder recipes use flour to thicken the soup, but for a gluten-free version, it is easy to substitute with cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or simply let the potatoes provide the natural thickening power. Always ensure that the broth or stock used is gluten-free, as some commercial broths contain gluten. With these small tweaks, roasted corn chowder becomes a hearty and gluten-free delight that everyone can enjoy.

Tips for Making Roasted Corn Chowder

Making a great bowl of roasted corn chowder involves more than just following a recipe—it’s about technique, balance, and knowing how to highlight the flavors of each ingredient. Here are some tips for making your chowder a success:

Roast the Corn Thoroughly: The key to developing the smoky flavor that defines this chowder is to make sure the corn is properly roasted. Ideally, roast the corn on a grill or under a broiler until it has deep golden-brown grill marks or char. This step ensures that the corn gets a nice caramelized flavor, which enhances the soup’s overall depth.
Use Fresh, Sweet Corn: For the best flavor, always use fresh, in-season corn. While frozen corn can be used in a pinch, nothing beats the sweet, juicy taste of fresh corn, which makes a huge difference in a chowder.
Add Cream Gradually: When adding cream to the chowder, do so gradually to prevent curdling. This will give you a smooth, velvety texture. If you want a lighter version, feel free to use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute.

Blend the Soup for Extra Smoothness: While you don’t need to puree the entire soup, blending a portion of it helps create a creamy base without having to add too much dairy. Blending half of the soup or some of the roasted corn with a bit of stock can give you a silky-smooth texture.
Top with Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives can brighten up the richness of the chowder and add an extra layer of flavor. A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheese, or crispy bacon bits can also be delicious additions.
Balance the Seasonings: A touch of smoked paprika, chili powder, or cayenne pepper can complement the smoky corn and give the chowder an extra kick. Always taste and adjust the seasonings, as the balance of salt, pepper, and spices can make a big difference.

Serving and Pairing Roasted Corn Chowder

Roasted Corn Chowder is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A simple Caesar or arugula salad can help balance the richness of the chowder.

For a heartier pairing, consider serving the chowder alongside grilled cheese sandwiches, crispy bacon, or even roasted chicken. If you want to make the meal lighter, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh fruit salad to add some brightness and contrast.

This dish is perfect for many occasions—whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, preparing for a fall gathering, or even as a comforting lunch option. It’s easy to prepare in large batches, making it an ideal choice for entertaining or meal prep for the week.

Conclusion: Why Roasted Corn Chowder is a Must-Try

Roasted Corn Chowder is a soul-warming dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply a lover of great-tasting food, this chowder can be adapted to suit any dietary preference. It combines the sweet smokiness of grilled corn with the rich creaminess of the soup base, creating a comforting bowl of goodness perfect for cool weather and cozy moments.

Its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to be customized make it a go-to recipe for any occasion—be it a casual family dinner, a festive holiday meal, or an elegant dinner party starter. The appeal of Roasted Corn Chowder lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its ability to bring people together around the table, making it a dish everyone can enjoy.