Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, then this Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need! There’s something magical about curling up with a bowl of creamy chowder, especially when it’s loaded with fresh corn and hearty potatoes. This recipe has become one of my favorites, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter, all while enjoying a comforting bowl of goodness.

What makes this chowder truly special is its simplicity. With a handful of wholesome ingredients, it comes together effortlessly and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a quick meal after a long day, this vegan corn chowder is sure to hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This chowder comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for any night when you need something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet corn and creamy texture. It’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The flavors in this soup deepen as it sits, so you can make it ahead of time and reheat for an even tastier meal.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of coconut milk and potatoes creates a rich, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome. They come together to create a delightful balance of flavors in your Vegan Corn Chowder. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

This Vegan Corn Chowder is wonderfully flexible! Here are some easy variations to switch things up:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Creamy Alternative: Replace coconut cream with cashew cream for a different creamy texture if you’re not keen on coconut flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for a burst of freshness.

How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Slice the corn off the cob by standing each cob upright in a bowl. Use a sharp knife to cut downwards, letting the kernels fall into the bowl. Breaking the cobs in half creates more flavor as they cook later on—don’t forget to save those empty cobs!

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, melt your vegan butter and add the chopped onions. Sauté until they are softened and translucent—this will help release their natural sweetness and provide depth to your chowder.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme

Stir in the crushed garlic and dried thyme with those lovely sautéed onions. Cooking them together allows those aromatic flavors to bloom and enhances the overall taste of your chowder.

Step 4: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour while stirring everything together. This will help thicken your chowder later on! Gradually whisk in vegetable stock, light coconut milk, and coconut cream until smooth.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Cobs

Now it’s time for those cubed potatoes! Toss them into the pot along with those broken corn cobs and bay leaf. Bringing everything to a simmer helps meld all those beautiful flavors together.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 7: Remove Cobs & Bay Leaf

Once your potatoes are soft enough to pierce with a fork, carefully take out both the corn cobs and bay leaf from the pot.

Step 8: Add Fresh Corn & Season

Stir in that fresh corn you prepared earlier and let it cook for another five minutes. Then toss in those vibrant green onions along with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your hearty chowder into bowls, garnishing each serving with extra green onions and another sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making a delicious vegan corn chowder is all about the little details! Here are some tips to help you create the perfect bowl of comfort.

• Use fresh corn when possible: Fresh corn on the cob will give your chowder a sweeter and more vibrant flavor compared to frozen or canned options. If it’s in season, definitely go for it!

• Sauté onions thoroughly: Taking the time to sauté your onions until they are soft and translucent will add a depth of flavor to your chowder. This step caramelizes the natural sugars in the onions, making your soup even tastier.

• Don’t skip the bay leaf: Adding a bay leaf during cooking infuses your chowder with a subtle earthy flavor that elevates the entire dish. Just remember to remove it before serving!

• Adjust thickness for preference: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply blend a portion of the soup after cooking and stir it back in. This adds creaminess without needing additional ingredients.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to get creative by adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for heat. These can enhance the overall flavor profile of your chowder and make it truly unique.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving vegan corn chowder is just as fun as making it! With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it can be presented in various delightful ways.

Garnishes

To elevate your chowder, consider these simple yet effective garnishes:

• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro: Adds a bright freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

• A drizzle of olive oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil on top brings richness and enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

Side Dishes

Pairing your vegan corn chowder with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder. It adds texture and allows you to savor every last drop!

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chowder and adds freshness.

• Grilled vegetable skewers: Colorful veggies grilled to perfection not only taste amazing but also add a touch of smokiness that complements the sweet corn flavors nicely.

• Vegan quesadillas: Stuffed with cheese alternatives and veggies, these cheesy delights provide a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy bowl of vegan corn chowder that warms both body and soul! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty and comforting dish throughout the week. You can make it in advance, store it properly, and have it ready whenever hunger strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chowder into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
• Pour the chowder into freezer-safe containers or plastic bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if needed to loosen the consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Vegan Corn Chowder:

Can I use frozen corn for Vegan Corn Chowder?

Absolutely! You can substitute fresh corn with about 4.5 cups of frozen corn or canned corn (drained) for convenience.

How can I make my Vegan Corn Chowder thicker?

If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply blend a portion of it after cooking or add a bit more flour during preparation.

Is Vegan Corn Chowder healthy?

Yes! This Vegan Corn Chowder is packed with nutritious ingredients like potatoes and corn, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

How long does Vegan Corn Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Vegan Corn Chowder will last about 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s creamy, hearty, and perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs or spices to make it your own. Happy cooking and savor every spoonful!