Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a dish that warms your soul and fills your belly, then this Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with delicious flavors that will make you feel right at home. I love making this chowder on busy weeknights or when friends come over; it’s always a hit! Plus, it’s the perfect way to celebrate fresh corn during the summer or use up those frozen kernels during the colder months.

What makes this recipe special is not just its comforting taste, but also how easy it is to whip up. Trust me, once you try this Vegan Corn Chowder, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Comfort: The combination of coconut milk and cream creates a rich texture that soothes the senses.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these wholesome ingredients in your pantry or fridge already!
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this chowder. It’s flavorful without being overwhelming.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day. Perfect for meal prep!
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer or make it the star of your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Vegan Corn Chowder, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that blend beautifully together. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 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)

For the Vegetables

• 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 some fun ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Creamy Alternative: Swap out coconut milk for cashew cream if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by slicing the corn off the cob. Stand each corn cob in a bowl and carefully slice downwards to catch all those beautiful kernels. Once done, break the cobs in half and set both the corn and cobs aside for later use.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté until they soften and become translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! Then stir in the crushed garlic and dried thyme; let them mingle for a minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and mix well with your sautéed onions and garlic. This step helps thicken your chowder! Gradually whisk in vegetable stock, light coconut milk, and coconut cream until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Potatoes & Corn Cobs

Next up are those cubed potatoes! Toss them into the pot along with as many empty corn cobs as can fit comfortably. These cobs will infuse more corn flavor into your chowder while it simmers away. Don’t forget to add in that bay leaf!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover your pot and let it cook for about 25 minutes until those potatoes are perfectly tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once cooked, carefully remove those corn cobs and bay leaf from your chowder. Stir in the fresh corn kernels and allow them to cook for another 5 minutes. Then add chopped green onions along with salt and black pepper to taste—give everything one last stir!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your warm Vegan Corn Chowder into bowls, topped with extra green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. It’s ready to enjoy with loved ones!

I hope this recipe becomes as cherished at your table as it is at mine!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making a perfect vegan corn chowder is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your chowder turns out creamy, flavorful, and utterly delicious.

• Use Fresh Corn When Possible: Fresh corn yields a sweeter flavor and a delightful crunch that frozen or canned corn can’t match. If you’re in season, grab some ears from your local market!
• Sauté the Aromatics Well: Taking the time to sauté the onions, garlic, and thyme until they’re fragrant enhances the overall flavor of your chowder. This step builds a solid flavor foundation for the soup.
• Don’t Skip the Bay Leaf: Adding a bay leaf during cooking infuses the chowder with a subtle depth of flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving!
• Adjust Creaminess to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker chowder, blend a portion of it after cooking and then stir it back into the pot. This creates an incredibly creamy texture without losing any of that delicious corn goodness.
• Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Every batch of corn has its unique sweetness and saltiness. Be sure to taste your chowder before serving, adjusting salt and pepper as necessary to achieve that perfect balance.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Vegan corn chowder is not only delicious but also visually appealing! With its vibrant color and creamy texture, serving it right can elevate your dining experience even further.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side provides an opportunity for guests to add a zesty finish that brightens up each spoonful.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering red pepper flakes allows everyone to customize their bowl according to their spice preference.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Whole Wheat Bread: A slice of hearty whole wheat bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder. Its nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the sweet corn.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy chowder.
• Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers create a colorful plate while adding extra nutrients and flavors that complement the soup beautifully.
• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley brings texture and adds heartiness to your meal. It’s filling yet light enough not to overshadow the star dish!

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable vegan corn chowder experience. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is a fantastic option for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the chowder into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
• For best results, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chowder overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Vegan Corn Chowder without fresh corn?

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

How do I thicken my Vegan Corn Chowder?

If you find that your chowder is too thin, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender or regular blender. This will give it a creamier texture while keeping some whole pieces intact.

What sides go well with Vegan Corn Chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or even some homemade cornbread. It’s versatile enough to suit any meal setting!

How long does Vegan Corn Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delicious Vegan Corn Chowder lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s creamy, hearty, and perfect for warming your soul on chilly days. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to try this comforting recipe—your taste buds will thank you!