Craving a comforting bowl of creamy corn chowder but want to avoid dairy? Look no further! This dairy-free corn chowder recipe is surprisingly easy to make, bursting with fresh corn flavor, and entirely free of dairy products. It's the perfect healthy meal for a chilly evening, a quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, or a delicious dish to impress your friends. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. Let's dive into this best recipe for a truly satisfying and guilt-free culinary experience!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk (for creaminess)
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper for extra color and flavor
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your chowder.
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Add Vegetables and Broth: Add the corn, potatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. If using, add the red bell pepper now. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Blend for Creaminess: Carefully transfer about half of the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender). Blend until smooth and creamy. This creates a naturally creamy texture without any dairy!
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Combine and Finish: Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk. Heat through gently, but do not boil. Stir in the chopped chives and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Dairy-Free Corn Chowder:
- Fresh Corn is Best: Using fresh corn on the cob will significantly enhance the flavor of your chowder. If using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the pot.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chowder before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding the coconut milk.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh chives add a lovely pop of color and flavor. Consider adding a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of toasted pepitas for extra texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Corn Chowder: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Corn Chowder (Vegetarian Bacon): Crumble some vegetarian bacon into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking for a smoky flavor.
- Creamy Corn Chowder with Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roast some sweet potatoes before adding them to the soup for a sweeter, richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This dairy-free corn chowder is a delightful and healthy option for anyone looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make soup. Enjoy this easy recipe and let us know your thoughts in the comments!