Cauliflower-Ham Chowder
A creamy, comforting cauliflower and ham chowder with a rich potato flavor, perfect for warming up on chilly days and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large covered saucepan, cook cauliflower in chicken broth until almost tender, about 10 minutes.
- Do not drain; set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk or light cream with condensed cream of potato soup.
- Stir in cornstarch and white pepper until smooth.
- Add the mixture to the cooked cauliflower and broth in the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the chowder thickens and is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using light cream instead of milk. You can also substitute cauliflower with broccoli or mixed vegetables for a different flavor profile. If you want a bit more seasoning, try adding garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the chowder. This recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to include leftover meats or vegetables, similar to what you might find in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread for a more complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light fruit dessert, such as Cyndy'S Summer Delight, to round out the dining experience. For added texture, sprinkle some crispy bacon or croutons on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency as it may thicken upon cooling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cauliflower-Ham Chowder contains roughly 382 calories, with 9g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value) and iron (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chowder a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, but you'll want to reheat it gently to avoid overcooking the cauliflower.
Can I freeze the chowder?
Freezing is not recommended for this chowder, as the cream base may separate upon thawing. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing just the broth and adding fresh ingredients when you're ready to make it again.
What can I serve with the chowder?
This chowder pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light sandwich or a simple green salad. It also complements other hearty dishes like Chicken In Sherry or Oven-Fried Chicken Cutlets for a comforting meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).