Vegan Corn Chowder
If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your soul, this Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need. It’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor from fresh corn and potatoes. I’ve made this recipe countless times for family gatherings and busy weeknights, and it never fails to bring smiles all around. The simplicity of the ingredients paired with the rich, comforting texture makes it a go-to favorite in my kitchen.
This chowder is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a delightful bowl of goodness after a long day. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this chowder in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a warm bowl of soup! This vegan corn chowder is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of sweet corn and creamy coconut milk creates a deliciously satisfying experience.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer or main course; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a delicious bowl of vegan corn chowder that’s both comforting and nourishing. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chowder
- 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
One of the best parts about this vegan corn chowder is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:
- Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
- Spice It Up: If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to give your chowder a kick!
- Creamy Alternative: Swap out coconut cream for cashew cream if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can elevate the flavor—just sprinkle some on top before serving!
How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Start by slicing the corn off the cob. Stand each cob in a bowl and carefully slice downwards to catch all those sweet kernels. Breaking the cobs in half will help release even more flavor later on!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add in your chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it builds a lovely foundation of flavor.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme
Next, stir in the crushed garlic and dried thyme. Let them cook together briefly until fragrant; this will enhance the aroma of your chowder.
Step 4: Create the Base
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and mix well. Carefully pour in the vegetable stock along with both cans of coconut milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. This creamy base is what makes this vegan corn chowder so comforting!
Step 5: Incorporate Potatoes & Corn Cobs
Now it’s time for those peeled potatoes! Add them along with your empty corn cobs and bay leaf into the pot. The cobs will infuse additional sweetness as they simmer away.
Step 6: Simmer Away
Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover your pot and let it cook for about 25 minutes until those hearty potatoes are tender.
Step 7: Final Touches
Remove both the corn cobs and bay leaf from your pot—this ensures that your chowder remains smooth without any unwanted bits! Then fold in the fresh corn kernels and let them cook for another five minutes.
Step 8: Season & Serve
Finally, stir in your chopped green onions along with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle this delicious vegan corn chowder into bowls, garnishing with extra green onions on top if desired.
Enjoy every warm spoonful—you deserve it!
Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder
Making the perfect vegan corn chowder is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you elevate your dish to the next level.
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Use fresh corn – Fresh corn adds a sweetness and crunch that frozen or canned corn may lack. If it’s in season, take advantage of that delightful flavor!
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Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the seasoning by adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. This can enhance the overall flavor profile and make your chowder even more exciting.
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Blend for creaminess – For an extra creamy texture, consider blending half of the chowder before adding the fresh corn. This will create a velvety base while keeping some chunky bits for texture.
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Don’t skip the bay leaf – The bay leaf adds depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving!
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Pre-cook the potatoes – If you’re short on time, consider boiling the cubed potatoes separately until tender before adding them to the chowder. This can speed up your cooking process and ensure perfectly cooked potatoes.
How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder
Serving vegan corn chowder is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some simple yet effective ideas to make your dish shine!
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh herbs – A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro can brighten up your chowder and add a pop of color.
- Avocado slices – Creamy avocado complements the soup’s richness and adds an appealing visual element.
Side Dishes
- Crusty Bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder, making for a comforting combination.
- Simple Green Salad – A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creaminess of the chowder.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth to your meal, enhancing both nutrition and flavor.
- Cornbread Muffins – These sweet and savory muffins are a classic pairing with any hearty soup, providing a delightful texture contrast.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a warm bowl of vegan corn chowder that’s comforting and fulfilling! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Vegan Corn Chowder is an excellent choice for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy lunch.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
- Divide into portions and use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- You can add a splash of vegetable stock or water if it has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful Vegan Corn Chowder.
Can I make Vegan Corn Chowder without fresh corn?
Absolutely! You can use frozen or canned corn instead. Just ensure that you adjust the quantities accordingly, using about 4.5 cups of frozen corn or drained canned corn.
How long does Vegan Corn Chowder last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your Vegan Corn Chowder will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Can I customize the Vegan Corn Chowder?
Yes! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is Vegan Corn Chowder gluten-free?
To make this chowder gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also comforting and nourishing—perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so feel free to put your unique twist on this recipe. Enjoy every spoonful!
Dinner
Vegan Corn Chowder
If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, this Vegan Corn Chowder is the perfect choice. Made with fresh corn, creamy coconut milk, and hearty potatoes, this chowder delivers warmth in every spoonful. It’s an ideal meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, bringing smiles to all who share it. The simple ingredients meld beautifully, creating a rich texture that’s satisfying and delicious. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or a main course, this chowder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 bowls 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 5 Corn on the Cob (or 4.5 cups frozen/canned corn)
- 3 Tablespoons Vegan Butter
- 1 Medium Onion (Chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Crushed Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- ½ cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Vegetable Stock
- 28 ounces Canned Light Coconut Milk
- 14 ounces Canned Coconut Cream
- 2 Large Potatoes (Peeled and Cubed)
- ¾ cup Chopped Green Onions
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice corn off the cob and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt vegan butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until soft.
- Stir in crushed garlic and dried thyme until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour into the pot and mix well. Gradually add vegetable stock and coconut milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add cubed potatoes and corn cobs along with the bay leaf; simmer covered for about 25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Remove corn cobs and bay leaf; fold in fresh corn kernels, cooking for another five minutes.
- Stir in green onions, salt, and pepper to taste before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
