Are you craving a bowl of creamy, dreamy goodness that transports you straight to a sun-drenched French countryside bistro? Then look no further! This La Madeleine Corn Chowder recipe is your ticket to a taste of summer, any time of year. It’s incredibly easy to make, surprisingly healthy, and so delicious you'll be licking the bowl (don't worry, we won't judge!). This recipe offers a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, while still delivering on flavor and homemade charm.
Ingredients: You'll need these simple ingredients for a delicious homemade meal
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions: Easy Steps to a Delicious Bowl of Chowder
Get started:
- Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This step adds a depth of flavor to your chowder.
Building the flavor:
- Stir in the corn, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If using frozen corn, you may want to add it slightly later to avoid overly mushy kernels.
Finishing touches:
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Heat through gently; do not boil. Boiling can cause the cream to separate.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want a bit more salt or pepper depending on your preference.
Serving suggestions:
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh chives, if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping – the perfect complement to this creamy soup.
Cooking Tips for the Best Corn Chowder
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes or bell peppers for a heartier chowder.
- If you don’t have fresh chives, you can use dried chives instead, but use about 1/4 the amount.
- For a smoother chowder, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup after cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Explore Delicious Twists on a Classic
- Spicy Corn Chowder: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Cheesy Corn Chowder: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Bacon Corn Chowder: Cook diced bacon until crispy before adding the onions and celery for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This La Madeleine-inspired corn chowder is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting warmth and the delightful taste of this easy-to-make healthy meal! It's a great addition to your repertoire of best recipes, suitable for both quick dinner ideas and special occasions. Enjoy!