Ham and Potato Corn Chowder

Ham and Potato Corn Chowder: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort

Spring may be in the air, but with an unexpected Easter snowfall, I found myself reaching for something warm and comforting. What better way to use leftover ham than by whipping up a creamy ham and potato corn chowder? Packed with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, this chowder is both hearty and nourishing. Instead of cream, I opted for a lighter touch with ham broth and milk, letting the flavors of ham, potatoes, and corn shine through. A dash of white miso paste adds a delightful umami depth. This quick and easy chowder takes less than 30 minutes to make, perfect for any chilly spring evening. And if you have leftovers, they make for a delightful lunch the next day. Here’s hoping for warmer days ahead, but until then, this chowder is my go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
  • A lighter, creamy chowder with no heavy cream.
  • Perfect for using up leftover ham.
  • Packed with nutritious vegetables.
  • Customizable with your favorite ingredients.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons oil or butter
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
  • 1/4 cup flour (or rice flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 cups ham broth or chicken broth
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 1/2 pounds potatoes, diced small and optionally peeled
  • 8 ounces ham, diced
  • 1 cup corn
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Mix in the garlic, thyme, and flour. Cook until the flour is lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Slowly stir in the broth, deglazing the pan as you go. Add the milk and potatoes, bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  4. Add the ham and corn, cook until heated through, and season with salt and pepper.

Tips for Success

  • Dice vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
  • Deglaze the pan thoroughly to incorporate all flavors.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

Additional Tips and Variations

  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  • Swap potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 250
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze the chowder?

Yes, you can freeze the chowder. However, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating.

What can I use instead of ham broth?

Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as an alternative to ham broth.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use rice flour instead of regular flour to make the chowder gluten-free.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of ham and potato corn chowder to chase away the chill of an unexpected spring snow. It’s a delightful way to use up leftover ham while satisfying your cravings for comfort food. Give this recipe a try and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear how you made it your own!

Previous Post Next Post
Send this to a friend