Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, this Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need. It’s creamy and hearty, perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or planning a special get-together, this chowder never fails to impress. It’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a beloved recipe in our home.

What I love most about this Vegan Corn Chowder is how easy it is to whip up while still feeling indulgent. The combination of sweet corn and creamy potatoes creates a delightful flavor that warms your heart and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: This chowder comes together easily, making it perfect for even novice cooks.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time, making weeknight meals a breeze!
• Comforting and filling: With its hearty ingredients, this chowder satisfies your hunger while being light on guilt.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as an appetizer or main course; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Vegan Corn Chowder uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chowder

• 5 Corn on the Cob (or 4.5 cups (738g) Frozen Corn or Canned Corn, Drained)
• 3 Tablespoons Vegan Butter
• 1 Medium Onion (White, Yellow or Brown, Chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Crushed Garlic
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1/2 cup All Purpose Flour (63g)
• 2 cups Vegetable Stock (480ml)
• 28 ounces Canned Light Coconut Milk (800ml, 2 cans) Unsweetened
• 14 ounces Canned Coconut Cream (400ml, 1 can) Unsweetened
• 2 Large Potatoes (1.2 pounds / 600g) peeled and cubed
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 3/4 cup Green Onions (Chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• Black Pepper to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some spice: If you like a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Throw in more veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or celery can be great additions for extra nutrition.
• Creamier texture: Blend part of the chowder until smooth for a velvety consistency.
• Herb twist: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end for a pop of freshness.

How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by slicing the corn off the cob. Stand each cob in a bowl and carefully slice downwards to release those juicy kernels. Breaking the cobs in half allows you to use them later for flavoring!

Step 2: Sauté Onions

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until they soften. This step is crucial because it helps develop the base flavor of your chowder.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme

Stir in the crushed garlic and dried thyme with the onions. Sautéing these aromatics together enhances their flavors and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 4: Create Your Base

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour while stirring continuously. Then slowly add vegetable stock along with light coconut milk and coconut cream, whisking until smooth. This creates a luscious base for your chowder.

Step 5: Cook with Potatoes

Now it’s time to add those peeled and cubed potatoes along with your empty corn cobs and bay leaf. This simmering process allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover your pot and let it cook for about 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender—this is when the magic happens!

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove those empty corn cobs and bay leaf from your pot; they’ve done their job! Now stir in the fresh corn and let everything cook for an additional five minutes before adding green onions, salt, and black pepper.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Ladle your Vegan Corn Chowder into bowls and top with extra chopped green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Enjoy this comforting meal with loved ones!

With every spoonful of this vegan corn chowder, you’ll experience warmth that feels like home—truly comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making the perfect vegan corn chowder is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to elevate your chowder game.

• Fresh Corn is Best: If you can get your hands on fresh corn, go for it! Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch and vibrant flavor that frozen or canned corn just can’t match.

• Don’t Skip the Bay Leaf: Adding a bay leaf during cooking infuses the chowder with a subtle depth of flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving!

• Blend for Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup once the potatoes are soft. This creates a lovely velvety base while leaving some chunks for heartiness.

• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply let it simmer longer to reduce liquid. Conversely, if it’s too thick, add more vegetable stock or coconut milk until you reach your desired consistency.

• Customize with Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes it visually appealing!

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving your vegan corn chowder can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this hearty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of freshness and color.
• Croutons: Add some crunchy croutons for texture contrast; they provide a delightful crunch with every spoonful.
• A Dash of Paprika: A light sprinkle of smoked paprika not only adds color but also gives an extra layer of flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder. The flavors pair beautifully and it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Side Salad: A refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables make for a hearty side, enhancing the meal’s natural flavors while providing additional nutrients.
• Quinoa or Rice: Serve your chowder alongside fluffy quinoa or rice to create a filling meal that’s packed with protein and fiber.

Enjoy creating this comforting vegan corn chowder, and don’t forget to share your experience! Whether it’s warming up on a chilly evening or serving at gatherings, this dish has something special for everyone.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also saves you time during your busy week. Here’s how to keep your chowder fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool to room temperature.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if it thickens too much while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use canned corn for Vegan Corn Chowder?

Absolutely! You can substitute fresh corn with 4.5 cups of frozen or canned corn (drained) for convenience. Just add it in towards the end of cooking.

How do I make Vegan Corn Chowder thicker?

If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender or regular blender before adding back in the whole corn kernels. This will create a creamier texture while keeping some corn intact.

What can I serve with Vegan Corn Chowder?

This chowder pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even grilled vegetables. It makes for a hearty meal all on its own!

Can I add other vegetables to my Vegan Corn Chowder?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini based on your preferences. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Vegan Corn Chowder brings warmth and comfort to your table! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a dish that fosters connection and joy during mealtime. Enjoy experimenting with it, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy cooking!