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Corn and Zucchini Chowder

Corn and Zucchini Chowder
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Corn and Zucchini Chowder is a creamy and comforting soup that combines tender sweet corn kernels with delicate zucchini in a smooth, hearty broth. This versatile chowder is quick to prepare and perfect for any season, offering fresh, vibrant flavors with a nourishing, velvety texture that pleases every palate.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 ears fresh corn, kernels removed (or 2 cups frozen corn)
  • 2 medium zucchinis, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley), chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • Cooked shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or white beans for added protein
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for spice
  • Alternative fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, or dill
  • Extra corn and zucchini pieces reserved for chunkier texture

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Wash and chop the zucchini into bite-sized pieces and slice off the sweet corn kernels from the cob. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to create a flavorful base for the chowder.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until they become translucent and fragrant, which builds the rich flavor foundation of the chowder.
  3. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped zucchini and corn kernels to the pot. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some shape and texture, preserving their vibrant qualities.
  4. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and cook for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to fully tenderize.
  5. Blend and Add Cream: Using an immersion blender, pulse the soup gently to achieve a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for a hearty feel. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to enhance richness.
  6. Season and Garnish: Season the chowder with salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs. Serve it hot, garnished with extra herbs or a sprinkle of cheese, if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn and zucchini for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overblend; leaving some chunks adds a homemade, satisfying texture.
  • Adjust creaminess by thinning with additional broth or thickening with a flour slurry if preferred.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go to balance flavors perfectly.
  • Try toasting or roasting the corn before adding to the chowder for extra depth.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn chowder, zucchini chowder, creamy soup, gluten free soup, vegetarian chowder, dairy free option, comfort food, easy soup recipe

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/corn-and-zucchini-chowder/