Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs and Smoked Ham

Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs and Smoked Ham Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs and Smoked Ham

Corn chowder is a comforting and hearty soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the smokiness of ham and the freshness of herbs to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

History

Corn chowder is a classic American dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the New England region, where corn was a staple crop. The addition of fresh herbs and smoked ham adds a modern twist to this traditional recipe.

Ingredients

2 cans of chicken broth
0.5 cup of finely chopped white onion
1 medium carrot, finely chopped
1 bay leaf
1 sprig of fresh thyme and tarragon
2 cans of whole potatoes, drained
2 cans of whole kernel corn, drained
0.5 cup of half-and-half
2 cans of pimientos, drained and diced
3 tbsp of chopped parsley
1 cup of julienned smoked ham

How to prepare

In a 3 qt saucepan, combine the broth, onion, and carrot.
Add the bay leaf, thyme, and tarragon to the saucepan and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove the herbs.
Using an electric blender, puree the entire contents of the pot along with 1 can of potatoes and 1 can of corn.
Return the mixture to the saucepan.
Dice the other can of potatoes and add them to the pot along with the remaining can of corn.
Stir well and add the half and half.
Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in the pimientos, parsley, and ham.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Use bacon instead of ham for a different flavor profile.
Stir in some cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to puree a portion of the soup to create a creamy base while still leaving some chunks of potatoes and corn for texture.

- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt and pepper if needed.

- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this corn chowder with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Pureeing a portion of the soup helps to thicken it and create a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh corn kernels instead of canned for a fresher taste.

- Substitute heavy cream for half-and-half for a richer soup.

Make Ahead Tips

This corn 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 the corn chowder with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This corn chowder pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this corn chowder contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this corn chowder contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this corn chowder contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this corn chowder contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This corn chowder is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and pork products.

Summary

This corn chowder is a balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Corn chowder with fresh herbs and smoked ham is a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. With a creamy base, chunks of potatoes and corn, and the smoky flavor of ham, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs and Smoked Ham. It was a cool autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of savory soup filled the air, making my mouth water with anticipation. Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, then proceeded to show me the pot simmering on the stove.

"This is my famous Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs and Smoked Ham," she declared proudly. "Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, my curiosity piqued by the combination of ingredients and the rich flavors wafting through the kitchen. Martha handed me a pen and a notepad, and together we began to prepare the soup.

She started by sautéing diced onions and garlic in a large pot until they were soft and fragrant. Then she added diced potatoes, sweet corn kernels, and chunks of smoked ham, stirring everything together with a wooden spoon. The aroma of the ingredients mingling together was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

Next, Martha poured in chicken broth and brought the mixture to a gentle simmer. She added a generous pinch of salt and pepper, along with a handful of fresh herbs from her garden - thyme, rosemary, and parsley. The herbs released their earthy aromas into the soup, infusing it with a depth of flavor that was simply irresistible.

As the chowder simmered on the stove, Martha shared with me the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed down the tradition of making this hearty soup to her. Martha had added her own twist to the recipe over the years, incorporating the smoked ham for an extra layer of richness and depth.

I listened intently as she spoke, marveling at the way recipes could be passed down through generations, each cook adding their own unique touch to make it their own. Martha's eyes sparkled with pride as she ladled the finished chowder into bowls, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

We sat down at her kitchen table and dug into our steaming bowls of Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs and Smoked Ham. The first spoonful was like a burst of flavor in my mouth, the creamy broth mingling with the smoky ham and sweet corn in a perfect harmony of tastes and textures. Each bite was a revelation, a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds and warmed my soul.

As we ate, Martha and I chatted about our love of cooking and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. She told me about the countless hours she had spent in her kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to perfect her recipes. I shared my own memories of learning to cook at my grandmother's side, absorbing her wisdom and love through the simple act of preparing meals together.

By the time we had finished our meal, the sun had set outside, casting a warm glow through the windows of Martha's kitchen. I thanked her profusely for sharing her recipe with me, vowing to make it a staple in my own kitchen for years to come. As I left her house that evening, my belly full and my heart content, I knew that I had gained not just a delicious new recipe, but a cherished memory of a shared culinary experience with a dear friend.

And so, whenever I make Martha's Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs and Smoked Ham, I think back to that autumn day in her kitchen, the scent of savory soup filling the air and the warmth of friendship surrounding me. Each spoonful is a taste of tradition, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am forever grateful.