If you’re looking for a warm, comforting soup that’s hearty and satisfying, this Corn Chowder with Ham and Potatoes is a perfect choice. It combines the savory flavors of ham with the sweetness of corn and the heartiness of potatoes, all wrapped up in a creamy broth. This chowder is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a delightful lunch on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups chopped ham
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, freshly minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups corn, can be frozen or canned, drained
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups water
- 4 to 5 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and dicing the 2 large potatoes. Dice the 1 small onion and mince the garlic clove. Chop the 1 ½ cups of ham into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Potatoes and Ham
Add the diced potatoes and chopped ham to the pot. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to start to soften and the ham to heat through.
4. Create the Base
Sprinkle 4 to 5 tablespoons of flour over the potato and ham mixture. Stir well to coat the ingredients and cook for 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken the chowder.
5. Add Liquids
Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 ½ cups of water while stirring constantly. This will create a creamy base for your chowder. Continue to stir until the mixture is well combined and starts to thicken.
6. Incorporate Corn and Seasonings
Add 1 ½ cups of corn to the pot, along with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and cook until the potatoes are tender and the chowder has thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Adjust Consistency
If the chowder is too thick, you can add a bit more milk or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken up.
8. Serve
Once the chowder has reached the perfect consistency and the flavors have melded together, ladle it into bowls and serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- Ham: Use leftover ham or pre-cooked ham for convenience. If using a fresh ham steak, ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the chowder.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well for this recipe. They break down slightly during cooking, adding to the chowder’s creamy texture.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn can be used. If using frozen corn, make sure it’s thawed before adding it to the chowder.
- Thickening: The flour creates a roux that thickens the chowder. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness, or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also enhance the dish.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk or broth if needed.
This Corn Chowder with Ham and Potatoes is a comforting, filling dish that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s easy to make and packed with flavors that everyone will love. The combination of ham, potatoes, and corn in a creamy broth makes for a satisfying meal that will warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete, hearty meal!
