Description

Imagine cozy evenings curled up with a bowl of warm, creamy chowder that embodies comfort food at its finest. That’s exactly what our sensational Bacon Corn Chowder delivers—a hearty, flavorful soup that warms both the body and soul. This dish marries the sweetness of corn with the savory richness of bacon, creating a delightful harmony that will have you coming back for more.

Originating from the classic New England coastline, chowders have long been a beloved dish, often rich and hearty, perfect for satisfying hunger after a day spent by the sea or in the fields. This particular version captures the essence of rustic cooking while bringing a bit of modern convenience, thanks to the use of a slow cooker.

What makes this chowder stand out is not just its delightful array of ingredients but also its comforting textures and the tempting aroma that wafts through your home as it simmers. Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted with the enticing scent of sautéed vegetables mingled with crisp bacon—pure bliss!

Whether you're looking for a family-friendly dinner idea, a dish to share at a gathering, or just a simple but delicious meal, this Bacon Corn Chowder is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to fall in love with, as it invites everyone to the table, encouraging connection and comfort. This chowder is not just a meal; it’s an experience worth savoring.

Ingredients

• - Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
• - 2 large carrots, diced
• - 2 stalks celery, diced
• - 1 small sweet onion, diced
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced
• - 4 small red potatoes, chopped
• - Essential Ingredients
• - 4 cups (700 g) frozen corn
• - 1 lb. (450 g) bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve 1/4 cup)
• - 1 teaspoon (1 g) dried thyme
• - 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 g) dried oregano
• - 1.5 teaspoons (10 g) salt
• - 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) black pepper
• - Liquid Essentials
• - 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
• - 1-12 oz. (340 g) can evaporated milk
• - 2 tablespoons (16 g) cornstarch
• - Optional Ingredients
• - 2 tablespoons (28 g) butter for added richness
• For those who may prefer alternatives or wish to tweak the recipe, consider using fresh corn in summer months, or substituting half the bacon with pancetta for a delightful twist. For a vegetarian or lighter version, you can replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon, enhancing the flavor with smoked paprika for that depth you’d miss.

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing your vegetables. Dice the carrots, celery, and sweet onion, ensuring they are cut uniformly so they cook evenly. Mince the garlic finely, setting it aside to release its flavors.

Next, turn your attention to the red potatoes. Chop them into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on if you prefer added nutrients and texture.

Once everything is prepped, take your 6-quart slow cooker and add the diced carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and potatoes. Follow this by incorporating the frozen corn, crumbled bacon, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together gently to ensure that each ingredient is well distributed, letting the colors and aromas mingle beautifully.

Now it’s time to add the star of our chowder—the liquid gold! Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the mixture, ensuring every vegetable is just immersed. This will help bring out the flares of flavor as they cook slowly and transform into a hearty chowder.

Set your slow cooker on low, allowing it to work its magic for approximately seven and a half hours. During this time, those lovely vegetables will become tender, and the bacon will infuse the soup with its rich, savory essence.

As the cooking time nears completion, get ready to create the creamy base for your chowder. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and evaporated milk until smooth. This mixture will give your chowder that luxurious creaminess we all crave.

With about 30 minutes of cook time left, open your slow cooker, and gently stir in the cornstarch and milk mixture along with the optional butter if desired. Let it cook on low for an additional half-hour, which will allow the flavors to meld together further and the chowder to thicken nicely.

Once finished, you’ll know your chowder is ready when it appears thick and creamy, with tender vegetables creating beautiful textures throughout. The aroma alone will tell you it’s time to serve!

Tips and Conclusion

For an additional layer of flavor, consider garnishing your chowder with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives just before serving. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can add a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

This chowder pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad, making for a well-rounded meal. If you have leftovers, they can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
There you have it—your very own delicious Bacon Corn Chowder, simmered to perfection and bursting with flavor! As you ladle it into bowls, take a moment to appreciate the colors and aromas that represent a labor of love cooked within your kitchen.

Each spoonful offers a comforting embrace, reminding you of warm evenings spent with loved ones. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself dreaming of this chowder long after the last bite; it has a wonderful way of capturing hearts and taste buds alike.

As you enjoy this delightful dish, why not explore our other recipes on the site? From classic appetizers to indulgent desserts, you’ll find a treasure trove of culinary adventures to embark on.

We invite you to share this Bacon Corn Chowder recipe with family and friends so they, too, can discover the joy of making and savoring this comforting staple. And remember, every great meal starts with a bit of inspiration—keep browsing our site for more delicious ideas! Happy cooking!