Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's both healthy and easy to make? Then look no further! Mimi's Cafe Corn Chowder is the perfect answer. This creamy, dreamy soup bursts with the sweet taste of fresh corn and is surprisingly quick to whip up, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It's one of those easy recipes that feels incredibly homemade and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn, or 2 (15-ounce) cans, drained)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: Crumbled bacon or crispy fried onions for topping
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This simple step builds a flavorful base for your chowder.
Building the Flavor:
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be lightly golden.
Adding the Corn and Broth:
- Stir in the corn kernels and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Creamy Perfection:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream). Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat through gently; do not boil.
Serving it Up:
- Ladle the corn chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding crumbled bacon or crispy fried onions as a topping.
Tips for the Best Corn Chowder:
- Fresh Corn is Best: If you can get your hands on fresh, sweet corn, use it! The flavor difference is remarkable. However, frozen or canned corn works perfectly fine too.
- Don't Overcook the Vegetables: Overcooked vegetables will be mushy. Aim for tender-crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the chowder before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and thyme to your liking.
- Make it Ahead: This corn chowder tastes even better the next day! It's a great make-ahead recipe for busy weeknights.
Variations:
- Spicy Corn Chowder: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Corn Chowder: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Potato Corn Chowder: Add 2 diced potatoes along with the onions, carrots, and celery for a heartier chowder.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on cream and toppings used)
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Mimi's Cafe Corn Chowder recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals you can easily make at home. It's a perfect quick dinner idea that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Enjoy!