Summer Corn Chowder

This Summer Corn Chowder is a delightful blend of fresh corn, creamy flavors, and savory turkey bacon. Perfect for warm summer days, this dish brings the taste of the season into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, this chowder is sure to impress. Its rich texture and vibrant flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chowder comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with sweet summer corn and fresh herbs, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a starter or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
• Comforting and Creamy: The combination of half and half and Yukon Gold potatoes creates a rich, hearty texture.
• Healthier Twist: Using turkey bacon keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Summer Corn Chowder, you’ll need some essential tools that will help you create this delicious dish with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Blender: Blending part of the chowder gives it that creamy texture while still keeping some chunky bits for added texture.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Summer Corn Chowder:

• 8 ears fresh sweet yellow corn, (husked and silks removed and kernels cut from cob)
• 3 Tbsp butter
• 5 slices Turkey Bacon, (cut into 1/4 to 1/2-inch pieces (see note))
• 1 medium yellow onion chopped ((1 1/2 cups))
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 clove garlic, (minced)
• 5 cups water (or low-sodium chicken broth)
• 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, (cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 Tbsp honey
• 2 – 3 Tbsp chopped fresh chives
• Shredded cheddar cheese, (for serving (optional))

How to Make Summer Corn Chowder

Step 1: Sauté Bacon and Onions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and turkey bacon. Cook while stirring frequently until the onion softens and starts to brown around the edges, about 8–10 minutes.

Step 2: Incorporate Flour and Garlic

Add in the flour and minced garlic. Cook for about 1.5 minutes while stirring continuously. Gradually whisk in the water or broth until well combined.

Step 3: Add Corn and Potatoes

Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Stir in the corn kernels and diced potatoes. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Allow the chowder to reach a light boil again. Reduce heat to medium-low, simmering occasionally until the potatoes are tender—this should take about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Part of the Chowder

Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Transfer about 2.5 cups of chowder into a blender. Blend until smooth for that creamy consistency.

Step 6: Final Touches

Pour the blended mixture back into the pot. Stir in half-and-half and honey until fully incorporated. Serve each bowl topped with fresh chives and optional shredded cheddar cheese.

Enjoy your delicious Summer Corn Chowder!

How to Serve Summer Corn Chowder

Serving Summer Corn Chowder is all about enhancing its creamy, comforting flavors. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your chowder experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked sourdough or baguette complements the chowder perfectly. Use it to soak up every drop of that delicious broth.

Topped with Chives

• A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives adds a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens each spoonful of chowder.

With Shredded Cheddar

• Adding shredded cheddar cheese brings extra creaminess and a rich, cheesy flavor that pairs beautifully with the corn base.

Garnished with Turkey Bacon

• Crispy turkey bacon pieces on top provide a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the smooth texture of the chowder.

Served in a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the chowder in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This not only looks impressive but also offers an edible vessel for enjoying every bite.

How to Perfect Summer Corn Chowder

Perfecting your Summer Corn Chowder takes just a few simple steps to ensure it’s always creamy and flavorful.

• Use fresh corn: Fresh sweet corn enhances the natural sweetness and flavor of your chowder, making it taste truly seasonal.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper at different stages can balance flavors and enhance overall taste.
• Blend partially: Blending part of the chowder gives it a creamy consistency while still keeping some texture from whole corn kernels and potatoes.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to swap or add herbs like basil or parsley for an extra layer of flavor that complements the dish.
• Control thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, let it simmer longer without adding more liquid; for thinner, add more broth gradually.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chowder to sit for 30 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Summer Corn Chowder

Pairing side dishes with your Summer Corn Chowder can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad
   A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy chowder.

2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
   The classic combo of gooey grilled cheese pairs perfectly with soup. Try using different cheeses for added flavor!

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients to your meal while complementing the flavors of the chowder.

4. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast in texture and taste, making them an ideal companion to corn chowder.

5. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs serve as a hearty side that echoes the potato content in the chowder itself.

6. Pickled Vegetables
   A small serving of pickled vegetables adds tanginess and crunch, providing a nice contrast to the richness of Summer Corn Chowder.

7. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad can refresh your palate between bites of rich soup, making for an enjoyable summer meal.

8. Stuffed Peppers
   Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and spices provide a filling side that pairs well with any soup dish, including chowders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Summer Corn Chowder, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using frozen corn: Fresh corn brings a sweeter flavor and better texture. Always opt for fresh corn when making this chowder.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending part of the chowder creates a creamy consistency. Don’t skip this step if you want that rich texture!
• Not seasoning properly: Lack of seasoning can lead to bland chowder. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you overcook them, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and test for doneness around 20 minutes.
• Using high-sodium broth: A low-sodium option gives you more control over flavor. Always choose low-sodium chicken broth if using it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Summer Corn Chowder

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The chowder can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Summer Corn Chowder

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Summer Corn Chowder that might help you make this dish even better.

Can I use other types of bacon?

Yes! You can substitute regular bacon or even turkey sausage for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Summer Corn Chowder vegetarian?

Simply omit the turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I serve with Summer Corn Chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Summer Corn Chowder is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors all summer long!