Harvest Chowder
A hearty harvest chowder featuring ground beef, tender vegetables, and savory broth, perfect for comforting family dinners and chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, chicken bouillon, and beef bouillon to a boil.
- Crumble raw ground chuck into boiling water and cook until browned.
- Let the cooked meat cool, then skim any excess fat from the surface.
- Add chopped onion, chopped celery, tomato sauce, potatoes, carrots, and parsley to the pot.
- Simmer over medium-high heat until vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chowder, consider adding corn or green beans for extra texture and flavor. If ground chuck isn't available, lean turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier option. To enhance the flavor, sauté the onions and celery in a bit of oil before adding them to the pot. Adjust the amount of bouillon based on your sodium preference, and don't hesitate to explore other herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Harvest Chowder with crusty bread or warm biscuits for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch of color and freshness. For a complete dinner, pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables. This chowder also pairs beautifully with Julia Child'S Potato Soup for a delightful two-course meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harvest Chowder contains roughly 859 calories, with 40g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (254% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (151% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2388mg per serving (104% 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 use vegetable broth instead of water and bouillon?
Yes, using vegetable broth is a great way to add more flavor to your chowder while keeping it meat-free. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings accordingly, as broth can vary in saltiness.
How can I thicken the chowder if it's too thin?
To thicken your chowder, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water. Another option is to let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid, which will naturally thicken the soup.
What can I substitute for potatoes?
If you're looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower florets or diced sweet potatoes can work well as substitutes. They will provide a different flavor and texture, but will still create a satisfying chowder.
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).