Fresh Corn Chowder
A creamy, sweet corn chowder with fresh corn, onions, and a hint of butter, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the corn off the cob.
- In a saucepan, combine the corn, chopped onions, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cover.
- Simmer about 15 minutes or until the corn is barely done, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in 3 1/2 cups milk, butter, salt, and pepper, and add the remaining milk and flour mixture to the corn.
- Cook and stir until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly.
- Slowly stir about 1 cup of the hot mixture into the beaten egg.
- Return the egg mixture to the saucepan with the hot chowder.
- Cook over low heat for 2 more minutes.
- Stir well and do not allow to boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of heavy cream at the end. If fresh corn isn't available, frozen corn can be a good substitute. You can also enhance the flavor by adding diced potatoes or bell peppers. For a touch of heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper. This chowder pairs beautifully with American recipes like Spicy Blue Cheese Stuffed Celery for a delightful appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley. It pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad, such as Easter Fruit Salad, for a refreshing contrast. For an added touch, sprinkle some crispy bacon or cheese on top just before serving to elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the egg from curdling. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creaminess, as the chowder may thicken upon cooling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Corn Chowder contains roughly 468 calories, with 14g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (304% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (151% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 85g 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 make this chowder vegan?
Yes, you can make this chowder vegan by substituting the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk. Replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, and omit the egg or use a flax egg as a thickening agent to maintain the texture.
How can I add more flavor to the chowder?
To enhance the flavor, try sautéing garlic along with the onions before adding the corn and water. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking can also provide depth. Consider incorporating a splash of white wine or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
What can I serve with corn chowder?
Corn chowder is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a light sandwich. Serving it alongside a crunchy side like Christmas Nut Thins can add texture. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
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).