Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, this Vegan Corn Chowder is just the ticket! Creamy, hearty, and absolutely bursting with flavor, it’s one of those recipes that I always turn to when I need something satisfying and wholesome. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this chowder brings smiles to the table every time.

The best part? It comes together in under an hour and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. So grab your favorite pot and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Comfort: This chowder is rich and velvety, making it the perfect hug-in-a-bowl for chilly days.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying your vegan corn chowder in no time—it’s perfect for beginner cooks!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet corn flavor, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time! It stores well in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome vegetables and healthy fats, this chowder is both delicious and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Vegan Corn Chowder, we’re keeping things simple with wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. 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

This Vegan Corn Chowder is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Add Some Spice: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle cayenne pepper for a kick!
• Throw in Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for more color and nutrition.
• Make it Chunky: Instead of blending everything smooth, leave some corn whole for added texture.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for a fresh flavor twist.

How to Make Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by slicing the corn off the cob. Stand each cob upright in a bowl to catch any flying kernels. Breaking the cobs in half helps release even more flavor as they cook!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until they soften—this brings out their natural sweetness. Next, add crushed garlic and dried thyme; sautéing these together enhances their aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir well; this helps thicken our chowder later on. Gradually whisk in vegetable stock along with light coconut milk and coconut cream until everything is combined.

Step 4: Add Potatoes & Cobs

Now it’s time to add those cubed potatoes along with the empty corn cobs and bay leaf. The cobs will infuse even more corn flavor into our soup as it simmers!

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 soft enough to mash easily with a fork.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Remove the corn cobs and bay leaf—these have done their job! Stir in the fresh corn that we set aside earlier. Let it cook for another 5 minutes before adding green onions, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your creamy vegan corn chowder into bowls and garnish with additional chopped green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Now you’ve got a delicious Vegan Corn Chowder that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making this vegan corn chowder is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can elevate your soup to new heights!

• Use fresh corn when possible: Fresh corn on the cob adds a natural sweetness and crunch that frozen or canned corn may lack. If you can get your hands on it, the flavor will truly shine in the chowder.

• Sauté the onions until golden: Taking a little extra time to sauté the onions until they are golden brown enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your chowder’s flavor profile.

• Adjust thickness to your liking: If you prefer a thicker chowder, blend a portion of the soup after cooking to create a creamy texture while keeping some whole ingredients for added heartiness.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. These additions can make your chowder more complex and exciting!

• Store leftovers properly: This chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable stock or water if it thickens too much, ensuring it remains creamy and delicious.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving this vegan corn chowder is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish stand out!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Adding fresh parsley or cilantro on top gives a burst of color and freshness.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado enhances the richness of the chowder while adding healthy fats.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread brings an irresistible crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the chowder.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots and zucchini enhances their natural sweetness and makes for a vibrant side dish.
• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread complements the flavors of corn in the chowder and adds a delightful texture contrast.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a warm bowl of comforting vegan corn chowder that’s perfect for any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is perfect for meal prep! It’s a hearty dish that keeps well, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the chowder completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chowder in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if it seems too thick.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use frozen corn for Vegan Corn Chowder?

Absolutely! You can substitute fresh corn with about 4.5 cups of frozen corn or 2 cans of drained canned corn. This makes it a convenient option year-round.

What can I add to enhance my Vegan Corn Chowder?

Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even jalapeños for a kick! Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten up the flavor.

How long does Vegan Corn Chowder last in the refrigerator?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this chowder will last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Can I make this Vegan Corn Chowder gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch mixed with water for thickening.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s not only comforting but also a versatile dish that fits perfectly into your meal planning. Whether it’s an appetizer or a main course, I know you’ll love how creamy and satisfying it is. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations on this recipe—happy cooking!