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
- 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.
- Mix in the garlic, thyme, and flour. Cook until the flour is lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- 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.
- 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!