Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that brings a smile to your face, then you’ve found it! This Vegan Corn Chowder is not just a soup; it’s like a hug in a bowl. Made with fresh corn and hearty potatoes, this chowder is creamy and rich, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or as the star of the meal, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.

What I love most about this vegan corn chowder is how simple it is to prepare. It’s filled with wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit different tastes and occasions. Let me share why you’ll fall in love with this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful chowder in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will savor the creamy texture and sweet corn flavor—perfect for everyone at the table!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This chowder stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and good for you.
• Deliciously Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or spices!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Vegan Corn Chowder. You probably have many of these already in your pantry!

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

This Vegan Corn Chowder is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few variations to keep things exciting:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some jalapeños to give your chowder a kick!
• Creamy Alternative: Swap out coconut milk for cashew cream if you’re looking for a different creamy texture.
• Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra flavor.

How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by slicing the corn off the cob. Stand each corn cob upright in a bowl and carefully cut downwards to collect all those sweet kernels. Breaking the cobs in half will make them easier to fit into your pot later.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, which adds depth to our chowder.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme

Mix in the crushed garlic and dried thyme with the onions. Sautéing these together enhances their flavors, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 4: Create the Base

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir it into the onion mixture. Gradually whisk in vegetable stock, light coconut milk, and coconut cream until smooth. This base will create that luxurious creaminess we all crave.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Corn Cobs

Toss in your cubed potatoes along with just enough empty corn cobs to fit comfortably into the pot—this helps infuse even more corn flavor! Add bay leaf too; it adds subtle depth.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then cover your pot. Let it cook for about 25 minutes until those potatoes are tender—this patience pays off with incredible flavor!

Step 7: Final Touches

Once cooked, remove the corn cobs and bay leaf from your pot. Stir in fresh corn kernels, allowing them to cook for about five minutes before adding chopped green onions along with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Ladle your delicious Vegan Corn Chowder into bowls and top with more green onions and black pepper if desired. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

This recipe serves six hearty portions—perfect for sharing on chilly evenings or meal prepping for busy days ahead!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Creating the perfect vegan corn chowder is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to help you achieve a delicious result every time!

• Use Fresh Corn When Possible: Fresh corn adds a natural sweetness and vibrant texture that frozen or canned corn can’t quite match. If you’re using fresh corn on the cob, it’s worth the extra effort for that delightful crunch.

• Sauté Your Aromatics Well: Taking the time to sauté the onions, garlic, and thyme until they’re soft and fragrant enhances the overall flavor of your chowder. This step builds a flavorful base that makes your soup taste incredibly rich.

• Don’t Skip the Bay Leaf: Adding a bay leaf during cooking contributes a subtle depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn. Just remember to remove it before serving!

• Adjust Consistency to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker chowder, blend a portion of the soup after cooking. Alternatively, if you like it thinner, simply add more vegetable stock or coconut milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Taste and Season Before Serving: Always taste your chowder before serving! Adjust the salt and pepper as needed to ensure it’s perfectly seasoned for your palate.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving vegan corn chowder can transform it from just a meal into an experience! Here are some creative ideas to present this creamy delight beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds color and freshness to each bowl.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little spice, adding red pepper flakes can give your chowder an exciting kick.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil on top before serving not only enhances flavor but also gives your dish an appealing sheen.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder. It adds texture and satisfies those carb cravings!
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the creamy chowder.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables not only complement your chowder but also add vibrant colors and flavors to your meal.
• Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins pair beautifully with corn chowder, enhancing its flavors while adding a comforting touch.

Enjoy your delicious vegan corn chowder paired with these garnishes and side dishes for an unforgettable dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is perfect for meal prep! Its flavors only deepen over time, making it a delightful dish to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label your container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool fully before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume sooner rather than later.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that you might find helpful!

Can I make Vegan Corn Chowder without fresh corn?

Absolutely! You can use frozen or canned corn instead. Just drain any canned corn before adding it to the chowder.

How do I thicken Vegan Corn Chowder?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply mash some of the potatoes after they are cooked, or you can add a little more flour during cooking.

What should I serve with Vegan Corn Chowder?

This chowder pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. You could also enjoy it as a main dish alongside roasted vegetables!

How long does Vegan Corn Chowder last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this chowder will last for about 4 days in the fridge.

Can I customize this Vegan Corn Chowder recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or spice it up with some jalapeños for extra heat!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s not just comforting and delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or sides—let your culinary imagination run wild! Happy cooking!