Cathy's American Chowder

Cathy's American Chowder Recipe - Delicious Potato and Cheese Chowder

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cathy's American Chowder is a hearty and comforting soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender potatoes, savory sausage, and creamy cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe has been passed down through Cathy's family for generations. It originated in the American Midwest, where hearty and filling dishes are a staple of the cuisine.

Ingredients

1 large white onion, sliced
2 tbsp butter
4 cups cubed potatoes
2 cups cold water
1 cup sliced celery
2 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 cups milk
2 tbsp flour
1 package frankfurters, sliced
0.5 lb (227 g) pasteurized cubed cheese

How to prepare

Cook and stir the onion in butter in a 3 qt (2.84 liter) saucepan over medium-high heat until tender.
Add the potatoes, water, celery, and seasonings.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and cover the saucepan.
Simmer for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Gradually add a small amount of milk to the flour, stirring until well blended.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the hot vegetables, stirring constantly.
Stir in the remaining milk and sausage; cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils and thickens.
Add the process cheese and stir until melted.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, for a unique twist.
Add corn or peas for added texture and color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the onion thinly to ensure it cooks evenly and adds flavor to the chowder.

- Use cold water when adding it to the potatoes to prevent them from becoming mushy.

- Stir constantly when adding the flour mixture to the vegetables to prevent lumps from forming.

- Be patient when melting the cheese, as it can take some time to fully incorporate into the chowder.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cathy's American Chowder with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the vegetables until they are tender to ensure a smooth and creamy chowder.

- Gradually add the milk to the flour mixture to prevent lumps from forming.

- Stir constantly when adding the cheese to ensure it melts evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

- Substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option.

- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Cathy's American Chowder can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Cathy's American Chowder with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve it in bread bowls for a fun and creative presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cathy's American Chowder with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Cathy's American Chowder in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cathy's American Chowder contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cathy's American Chowder contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cathy's American Chowder contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cathy's American Chowder contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cathy's American Chowder is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk and cheese) and gluten (flour). It may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or celiac disease.

Summary

Cathy's American Chowder is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a comforting meal.

Summary

Cathy's American Chowder is a comforting and delicious soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. With tender potatoes, savory sausage, and creamy cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Cathy at her cozy little cottage by the lake. We had known each other since we were young girls, and over the years, she had become like a sister to me. As we sat on her porch, sipping on lemonade and catching up on old times, she suddenly disappeared into her kitchen and emerged with a steaming pot of what she called "Cathy's American Chowder."

I watched in amazement as she ladled out generous portions of the creamy, fragrant soup into bowls, topping it off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The rich aroma of the chowder filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation. Cathy handed me a bowl and a spoon, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

"Go on, give it a try," she urged me. "I think you're going to love it."

I took a hesitant spoonful and let it linger on my tongue. The flavors exploded in my mouth - a perfect balance of sweet corn, tender chunks of potato, savory bacon, and a hint of smokiness from the paprika. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I was instantly hooked.

"How did you come up with this recipe, Cathy?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity.

Cathy smiled knowingly and settled back into her chair, a twinkle in her eye. "Well, my dear," she began, "this recipe has been passed down in my family for generations. My great-grandmother brought it with her from the old country, and over the years, each generation has added their own twist to it. This is my version of our family's beloved chowder."

I listened intently as Cathy shared the story behind the recipe, her voice soft and melodic. She told me about how her great-grandmother had been a young bride who had traveled across the ocean in search of a better life. When she arrived in America, she had to learn how to cook with the ingredients that were available to her, creating hearty, comforting dishes that would sustain her growing family through good times and bad.

As Cathy spoke, I could almost picture her great-grandmother standing over a bubbling pot of chowder, her hands deftly stirring in the ingredients with a sense of purpose and love. I could feel the warmth of the kitchen, hear the crackling of the fire, and smell the tantalizing aromas that filled the air. It was as if I had been transported back in time, experiencing a piece of history through Cathy's words.

Inspired by Cathy's story and the delicious chowder in front of me, I knew that I had to learn how to make this recipe for myself. I begged her to teach me, and she graciously agreed, promising to guide me through each step with patience and care.

Over the next few days, Cathy and I spent hours in her kitchen, chopping, stirring, and tasting our way through the recipe. She shared her tips and tricks with me, showing me how to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I watched in awe as she worked her magic, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that was nothing short of extraordinary.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the friendship that Cathy and I shared. Not only had she taught me how to make a delicious chowder, but she had also opened my eyes to the power of food as a source of connection, tradition, and love.

And so, thanks to Cathy's guidance and the wisdom of her ancestors, I can proudly say that I have mastered the art of making "Cathy's American Chowder." It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond that can be forged through the simple act of sharing a meal with someone you care about.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of chowder on a chilly winter evening, I can't help but think of Cathy and the memories we have made together in her kitchen. And as I take a sip of the steaming broth, I am filled with a sense of warmth and contentment, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that has been passed down through generations. In this moment, surrounded by the comforting aroma of the chowder and the flickering light of the fire, I feel truly grateful for the gift of friendship, food, and the stories that connect us all.