Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms your soul, this Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need. It’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with the sweet flavor of corn, making it a perfect companion on busy weeknights or for family gatherings. I love how this recipe brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying a bowl of deliciousness. Trust me, once you try this chowder, it will become a cherished favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This vegan corn chowder is like a warm hug in a bowl. Every spoonful is rich and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this chowder in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet corn and creamy texture. It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make Ahead Convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients is half the fun! For this Vegan Corn Chowder, you’ll need some simple pantry staples and fresh produce. Here’s what you’ll be using:

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 things about this Vegan Corn Chowder is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Creamier Texture: Swap out some of the vegetable stock for more coconut cream if you prefer an ultra-creamy chowder.
• Herb Twist: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or cilantro for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Slice the corn off the cob by standing the cobs in a bowl. This method helps catch any kernels that may fly away! Set aside both the fresh corn and the empty cobs; they will add great flavor later.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat and add in your chopped onion. Sauté until softened—this step is key as it brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Flavors

Stir in crushed garlic and dried thyme with your onions. Sautéing these together allows their flavors to meld beautifully before adding more ingredients.

Step 4: Create the Base

Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and stir well to combine before whisking in vegetable stock, light coconut milk, and coconut cream. This creates a creamy base that makes our chowder rich and delightful.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Cobs

Now it’s time for those cubed potatoes! Toss them into your pot along with empty corn cobs and bay leaf. The cobs will infuse extra corn goodness into your chowder.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a simmer then cover your pot. Let it cook for about 25 minutes until those potatoes are nice and tender—this is where all those flavors come together!

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove corn cobs and bay leaf from your pot—no one wants those sneaky bits! Stir in fresh corn followed by chopped green onions. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Spoon your delicious vegan corn chowder into bowls, topping each serving with more chopped green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making this vegan corn chowder is a breeze, but a few tips can help you take it to the next level!

• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn adds a sweet, crunchy texture that really elevates the chowder. If you can get your hands on it, go for the cob!

• Don’t Skip the Coconut Cream: The coconut cream gives the chowder its rich and creamy consistency. It’s what makes this soup so comforting and delicious!

• Adjust Thickness to Your Preference: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply blend a portion of the soup after cooking and stir it back in. This will create a heartier consistency.

• Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. Adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper can also give it an extra kick if you’re feeling adventurous!

• Leftovers are Gold: This chowder tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container for meals throughout the week.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving this vegan corn chowder is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add richness and balance out the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder. Consider sourdough or whole grain for added texture.

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the chowder while adding freshness.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and additional flavors that pair wonderfully with corn chowder.

• Vegan Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: For a comforting combo, serve with vegan grilled cheese made from your favorite plant-based cheese. It’s always a hit!

Enjoy serving this hearty vegan corn chowder! Whether it’s an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, making your busy days a little easier. Here’s how to store it properly so you can savor every delicious spoonful later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you’re storing leftovers, try to keep the toppings separate until serving for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty Vegan Corn Chowder.

Can I use frozen corn for Vegan Corn Chowder?

Yes! You can easily substitute fresh corn with about 4.5 cups of frozen corn. It will still provide that lovely texture and flavor you expect from this dish.

How do I make Vegan Corn Chowder thicker?

If you’d like a thicker consistency, you can blend part of the chowder with an immersion blender or regular blender. Alternatively, adding more potatoes will also help thicken it as they cook down.

Is Vegan Corn Chowder healthy?

Absolutely! This Vegan Corn Chowder is filled with nutritious ingredients such as potatoes and fresh corn, making it a hearty and healthy choice. Plus, it’s dairy-free!

Can I add other vegetables to my Vegan Corn Chowder?

Definitely! Feel free to add in any vegetables you love or have on hand, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this heartwarming Vegan Corn Chowder! The creamy texture combined with sweet corn makes it a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or planning meals ahead of time, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy crafting this delightful recipe and share it with those you cherish!