Maureen Mcgrail'S "Chicago" Corn Chowder
A creamy, smoky corn chowder with bacon, peppers, and scallions, perfect for cozy gatherings and highlighting sweet corn flavor with savory and peppery notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wilt the bacon in a large pot; add butter to melt.
- Add chopped onions and wilt on low heat for 10 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add chicken stock and diced potatoes.
- Cook over low heat for 12 to 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in half and half, cooked corn, pepper, and a dash of salt.
- Cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add chopped bell pepper and scallions.
- Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve garnished with cilantro.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using pancetta instead of bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the chowder before adding the corn. Adding a pinch of cayenne can give it an extra kick. This chowder can also be served with crusty bread for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this corn chowder warm, garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or as a side dish with grilled Chicken Wings(Christmas Open House). It can also be a delightful starter for a dinner party.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover corn chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of chicken stock or half and half to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maureen Mcgrail'S "Chicago" Corn Chowder contains roughly 1935 calories, with 58g protein, 370g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (415% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (388% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 770mg per serving (33% 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 frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works wonderfully in this recipe. Just add it during the last 7 minutes of cooking for the best texture and flavor. It’s a convenient option and will still provide the sweetness you expect in a good corn chowder.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the half and half with a non-dairy cream alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Ensure that the chicken stock is also dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and creamy chowder without dairy.
Can I add other vegetables to this chowder?
Yes, feel free to customize your chowder by adding vegetables like diced zucchini, carrots, or even spinach. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
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).