Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a bowl of pure comfort, this Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need! It’s rich and creamy, bringing together the sweetness of corn and the heartiness of potatoes. On busy weeknights or during family gatherings, this chowder makes everyone feel cozy and satisfied. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

What makes this Vegan Corn Chowder special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels indulgent yet healthy. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or as part of your main meal, it’s sure to please!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and sweet corn flavor.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This chowder stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of coconut milk and potatoes creates a rich mouthfeel that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Vegan Corn Chowder is a breeze! They are all simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chowder

• 5 Corn on the Cob (or 4.5 cups (738g) Frozen Corn or Canned Corn, Drained)
• 3 Tablespoons Vegan Butter
• 1 Medium Onion (White, Yellow or Brown, Chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Crushed Garlic
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1/2 cup All Purpose Flour (63g)
• 2 cups Vegetable Stock (480ml)
• 28 ounces Canned Light Coconut Milk (800ml, 2 cans) Unsweetened
• 14 ounces Canned Coconut Cream (400ml, 1 can) Unsweetened
• 2 Large Potatoes (1.2 pounds / 600g) peeled and cubed
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 3/4 cup Green Onions (Chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• Black Pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Vegan Corn Chowder is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up with these fun variations:

• Add Some Spice: If you love a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes!
• Change Up the Veggies: Throw in some diced bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
• Creamy Alternative: Use cashew cream instead of coconut cream for a different creamy texture.

How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by slicing the corn off the cob. Stand each cob upright in a bowl and carefully slice down to catch all those juicy kernels. This step not only adds flavor but also gives your chowder that fresh taste.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, add the vegan butter along with your chopped onion. Sauté until softened—this brings out their natural sweetness and sets a flavorful base for your chowder.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Stir in crushed garlic and dried thyme with those lovely onions. Cooking them together allows all those beautiful flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 4: Thicken It Up

Next, sprinkle in your flour and stir well. This helps thicken your chowder later on. Now pour in vegetable stock, light coconut milk, and coconut cream while whisking everything together until smooth.

Step 5: Add Potatoes & Corn Cobs

Toss in your cubed potatoes along with those empty corn cobs—don’t worry; they add depth to the flavor! Also include a bay leaf for extra aroma.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a gentle simmer before covering your pot. Let it cook for about 25 minutes until those potatoes become soft and tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove those corn cobs and bay leaf—time to reveal that delicious chowder! Add in your fresh corn and let it simmer for another five minutes before stirring in chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your delightful Vegan Corn Chowder into bowls. Top with more green onions and maybe an extra sprinkle of black pepper if you’re feeling fancy!

Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness; it’s perfect all year round!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making this vegan corn chowder will be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose Fresh Corn: Using fresh corn on the cob not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely texture. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen or canned corn works just as well—just make sure to drain and rinse canned options.

• Sauté Your Aromatics: Taking the time to sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant builds a flavorful base for your chowder. This step infuses the entire soup with rich flavors right from the start.

• Thicken with Flour Carefully: When adding flour, make sure to stir it in thoroughly before adding liquids. This helps avoid clumps and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.

• Don’t Skip the Bay Leaf: This small addition packs a punch! The bay leaf infuses the chowder with a subtle depth of flavor that makes each spoonful irresistible.

• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste your chowder after all ingredients have been added and cooked. This allows you to adjust salt and pepper levels without over-seasoning early on.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving this creamy vegan corn chowder is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful sides. Let’s explore some creative ways to enjoy this comforting dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices enhance the rich texture of the chowder and provide healthy fats.
• Croutons or Toasted Bread: A few crunchy croutons or a slice of toasted bread on top can add an enjoyable contrast to the smooth soup.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the chowder, making it even more satisfying.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers bring additional flavor and nutrition while complementing the soup’s creaminess.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A warm quinoa pilaf with herbs offers a hearty side that pairs well with the flavors of the corn chowder while adding protein and fiber.

Enjoy your delicious vegan corn chowder alongside these suggested accompaniments for a complete meal that warms both heart and soul!

Make Ahead and Storage

This vegan corn chowder is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. It stores beautifully, making it easy to have a delicious meal ready at any time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
• Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chowder in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Gently heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of vegetable stock or coconut milk if it’s too thick.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I make Vegan Corn Chowder with frozen corn?

Absolutely! You can use 4.5 cups of frozen corn instead of fresh corn on the cob. Just add it in when you would normally add fresh corn.

How long does Vegan Corn Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Vegan Corn Chowder can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with Vegan Corn Chowder?

This hearty chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or even some homemade vegan crackers for a complete meal.

Is Vegan Corn Chowder gluten-free?

To make this chowder gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this creamy and hearty Vegan Corn Chowder! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re enjoying it as an appetizer or as a cozy main course, I truly believe you’ll love how easy and delicious it is. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations – happy cooking!