Sweet Potato Bacon Chowder

When you think chowder, your mind probably immediately thinks ‘clam,’ but let me assure you that there is so much more to this world of soup. Take this Sweet Potato Bacon Chowder, for instance. It’s creamy and delicious, but there’s nary a mollusk involved – instead, it relies on a ton of nutrient-rich veggies, and with those come a ton of flavor. (And, well, the bacon doesn’t hurt either.)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet Potato Bacon Chowder is a delightful twist on the traditional chowder. It offers a unique blend of creamy sweetness from the sweet potatoes and the savory crunch of bacon. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or when you’re craving something hearty but not too heavy.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Paper towel-lined plate
• Stirring spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 2 large)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup kale or spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until well done and crispy. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside, but do not drain fat from pot.
2. Add onions and carrots to pot and cook until soft, 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook one minute more.
3. Stir in broth, sweet potatoes, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, 12-15 minutes.
4. Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the soup until desired consistency is reached. (If you don’t have an immersion blender, remove half of the soup to a blender, puree, and then return to pot.)
5. Stir in kale or spinach and cook until wilted. Add whipping cream and season to taste with salt and pepper.
6. Top with cooked bacon and serve. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure to cook the bacon until it’s crispy for the best texture contrast.
• Blending half of the soup gives a perfect creamy texture while keeping some chunky bits for a satisfying bite.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially the salt, as bacon can vary in saltiness.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like corn or bell peppers for added flavor and color. You can also use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This chowder is packed with vitamins from the sweet potatoes and leafy greens, and the bacon provides a good source of protein. It’s a comforting, nutrient-rich meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. The flavors will meld together even more, but add the bacon just before serving to keep it crispy.

Can I freeze this chowder?
While you can freeze it, the texture might change slightly upon reheating due to the cream. If you plan to freeze, consider adding the cream after reheating.

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato Bacon Chowder is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting, flavorful meal. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences and variations. Happy cooking!