Potato And Ham Chowder
A hearty and comforting potato and ham chowder featuring tender potatoes, smoky ham, sweet corn, and a creamy milk base. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, this soup combines classic flavors with a smooth texture and satisfying richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch chunks.
- Cook the ham if not already cooked; cut into small chunks.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and celery; sauté until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add potatoes, ham, corn, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20-30 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your chowder, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley. For a creamier texture, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. If you have leftover vegetables, such as carrots or green beans, feel free to toss them in for added nutrition. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread for dipping, making it a satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh herbs or croutons for added texture. It pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Summer Succotash or a hearty Meat, Potato, Egg Scramble for a filling and balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chowder gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato And Ham Chowder contains roughly 590 calories, with 16g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (225% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 63g 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?
Absolutely! While ham is traditional, you can substitute it with cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even turkey for different flavor profiles. Just ensure that any meat you use is already cooked before adding it to the chowder.
Is it possible to make this chowder vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chowder vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of milk. For added protein, consider incorporating beans or lentils. This adaptation maintains the hearty texture while catering to vegetarian diets.
Can I prepare this chowder in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chowder a day ahead. Just follow the recipe up to the point of simmering. Allow it to cool before storing in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently and adjust seasoning as needed. This can enhance the flavors as they meld overnight.
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).