Ham Chowder
Ham chowder offers a hearty, comforting bowl filled with tender vegetables, savory ham, and a creamy broth. Its rich flavors make it perfect for a cozy family dinner or weekend lunch, pairing beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh tossed salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the diced carrots, celery, and onion until tender.
- Blend the flour into the milk and add to the vegetables.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes to thicken.
- Add chopped ham and season with salt to taste.
- Garnish with paprika and parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a bay leaf while simmering. If you're out of milk, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk can work as substitutes. For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This chowder can also be enhanced with some fresh herbs like thyme or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham chowder warm, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika and chopped parsley for color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, like Broccoli-Grape Salad, to balance the richness of the chowder. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside American recipes featuring roasted vegetables or a light sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may want to add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture if it thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Chowder contains roughly 1370 calories, with 10g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 115g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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 other types of meat in this chowder?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or a blend of beans instead of meat. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match the new ingredient.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
To thicken the chowder further, you can mash some of the potatoes after cooking or add an extra tablespoon of flour mixed with a little cold water. Let it simmer for a few more minutes after adding to achieve your desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this ham chowder can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of milk for 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).