Fresh Cauliflower Ham Chowder
A hearty, comforting cauliflower and ham chowder with creamy milk, tender potatoes, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for a cozy family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, simmer potatoes, water, onion, and chicken base, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Add cauliflowerets and cook an additional 10 minutes or until tender.
- Stir in 2 cups of milk, ham, nutmeg, and white pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Blend the remaining 1/2 cup of milk with the flour.
- Stir the flour mixture into the hot soup.
- Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of heavy cream instead of just milk. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ham can be used as a substitute for cubed ham. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can also enhance the flavor. Make sure to blend the flour thoroughly with the milk to avoid lumps in the chowder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with snipped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Old South Sausage Stuffing, which complements the flavors wonderfully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, add a little milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Cauliflower Ham Chowder contains roughly 299 calories, with 6g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the chowder to avoid excess moisture. Adjust cooking time as necessary since frozen cauliflower may cook faster than fresh.
What can I substitute for chicken base?
If you don't have chicken base, you can use vegetable broth or bouillon cubes for a lighter flavor. Homemade chicken stock is also a great option if you want to enhance the depth of flavor in the chowder.
Is this chowder suitable for freezing?
While the chowder can be frozen, the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
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).