Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish to enjoy on a chilly evening, this Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need! It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with the sweet taste of fresh corn. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. The best part? It only takes about 50 minutes from start to finish!

This chowder not only warms your belly but also fills your heart with nostalgia. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try this vegan corn chowder, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious soup that’s perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and sweet corn flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This chowder stores beautifully in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies and healthy fats from coconut milk, this chowder is both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that they are wholesome and easy to work with. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Chowder Base

• 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

One of the best things about this vegan corn chowder is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to give it a little kick!
• Creamy Alternative: Swap out the coconut cream for cashew cream if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley to change up the taste.

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 to catch all those juicy kernels! Breaking the cobs in half lets them fit nicely into your pot later on.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and sauté until they’re soft and translucent. This step helps release their natural sweetness which adds depth to your chowder.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme

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

Step 4: Create the Base

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour while stirring continuously. This helps thicken our chowder later on! Gradually pour in vegetable stock along with light coconut milk and coconut cream, whisking until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Corn Cobs

Now it’s time for those cubed potatoes! Add them into the pot along with as many empty corn cobs as will fit comfortably. The cobs will infuse more corn flavor during cooking—just remember to remove them later!

Step 6: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cover your pot. Let it cook away for about 25 minutes until those potatoes are nice and tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove both the corn cobs and bay leaf from your chowder. Next, stir in that beautiful fresh corn you prepared earlier and let it cook for another 5 minutes. Finish by adding chopped green onions along with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Ladle that creamy vegan corn chowder into bowls—don’t forget an extra sprinkle of green onions on top! Enjoy each comforting bite as you gather around with loved ones.

With this vegan corn chowder recipe in hand, you’re all set for cozy meals ahead!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making this vegan corn chowder can be a delightful experience, and with a few extra tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob adds a natural sweetness and crunch that frozen or canned varieties can’t quite match. If it’s in season, definitely go for the fresh option!

• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the fresh corn. This will create that creamy texture while keeping some whole ingredients for added bite.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like parsley or cilantro for an additional layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and complement the sweet corn beautifully.

• Customize the Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños while sautéing the onions. It’s a great way to give your chowder an exciting kick!

• Make Ahead and Store: This chowder keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy comforting bowls throughout the week!

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving your vegan corn chowder is just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this cozy dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top adds not only color but also brightness to each bowl.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices can enhance the richness of your chowder while providing healthy fats.
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: Adding some toasted pumpkin seeds gives a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the smooth soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the chowder, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a refreshing vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chowder.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots brings out their natural sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the corn chowder.
• Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins complement the flavors of the chowder perfectly, adding another layer of comfort to your meal.

Serve this delightful vegan corn chowder at your next gathering or cozy night in, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is not only delicious but also excellent for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or save some for later. Here’s how to store and reheat it effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Label the container with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• Consider using freezer bags for easy stacking and saving space in your freezer.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of vegetable stock or water if it’s too thick.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in short intervals and stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this Vegan Corn Chowder.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn for Vegan Corn Chowder?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works great as a substitute and will still provide that sweet, delicious flavor. Just add it directly into the pot without thawing.

How can I make my Vegan Corn Chowder thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, try blending a portion of the chowder with an immersion blender or regular blender. You can also add more all-purpose flour while cooking or include additional potatoes.

How long does Vegan Corn Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Vegan Corn Chowder will stay fresh in the fridge for about 4-5 days.

Is this Vegan Corn Chowder gluten-free?

You can easily make this chowder gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s such a hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving something warm and filling. Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like avocado or fresh herbs to personalize it further. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with joy!