Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms the soul, this Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need. Imagine a bowl filled with creamy goodness, sweet corn, and hearty potatoes—it’s like a hug in soup form! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or making it the main event, this vegan corn chowder will leave everyone asking for seconds.

What makes this chowder truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up something delicious that feels indulgent without any fuss. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together and creates lasting memories around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This vegan corn chowder comes together in about 50 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild flavors, even picky eaters will love this soup. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this chowder ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. It tastes even better the next day!
• Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spices to make it your own. This chowder is a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious vegan corn chowder! You might already have many of these on hand, which makes it even easier to whip up.

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 how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Consider tossing in chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Creamy Alternative: Instead of coconut milk, try using cashew cream for a different flavor profile while keeping it dairy-free.
• Protein Boost: Stir in some cooked quinoa or lentils to make this chowder even more filling.

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 release those sweet kernels. After removing all the corn, break the cobs in half and set them aside along with your fresh corn. This step helps enhance the flavor later!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until they become soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes—bringing out their natural sweetness that will deepen your chowder’s flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme

Next up is adding crushed garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Sauté these with the onions for another minute until fragrant—this will infuse your soup with delightful herbaceous notes!

Step 4: Create Your Base

Stir in all-purpose flour gently until it’s well combined with everything else. Then whisk in vegetable stock along with light coconut milk and coconut cream until smooth. This rich base sets up that creamy texture we all adore in chowders!

Step 5: Add Potatoes & Corn Cobs

Now it’s time to add those cubed potatoes along with your empty corn cobs (use as many as fit comfortably). Toss in the bay leaf too! The potatoes will soak up all those wonderful flavors while cooking.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a simmer over medium heat before covering the pot. Let it cook for about 25 minutes until those potatoes are tender—this step is key to making sure every bite is comforting!

Step 7: Remove Cobs & Bay Leaf

After cooking, carefully remove both the corn cobs and bay leaf from your chowder. These have done their job adding flavor but it’s time for them to go!

Step 8: Finish Off with Fresh Corn & Green Onions

Now stir in that fresh corn you prepared earlier along with chopped green onions. Let it cook for another 5 minutes so everything melds beautifully together before seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your warm vegan corn chowder into bowls and top with more chopped green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Enjoy each sip of this creamy goodness—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Corn Chowder

Making this Vegan Corn Chowder is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use Fresh Corn for Best Flavor: If possible, opt for fresh corn on the cob instead of frozen or canned. Fresh corn provides a sweeter, more vibrant flavor that enhances the chowder’s overall taste.
• Adjust Thickness to Your Preference: If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply blend a portion of the soup after cooking and then stir it back in. This will give your chowder a creamy consistency without needing additional cream.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for an extra kick. These spices can introduce new layers of flavor that complement the sweetness of the corn.
• Make it Ahead of Time: This chowder tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and allow the flavors to meld overnight in the fridge for a richer taste.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable stock if it thickens too much.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Chowder

Serving this comforting Vegan Corn Chowder is just as important as making it! Here are some fun ideas to present your delicious creation:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado not only complements the chowder’s texture but also adds healthy fats and richness.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your chowder. The texture pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chowder, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are not only visually appealing but also pack in extra nutrients.
• Cornbread Muffins: These sweet, crumbly muffins are an excellent accompaniment to chowder, adding a delightful sweetness and texture to each bite.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Vegan Corn Chowder will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Corn Chowder is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch ahead of time, making it an easy option for busy weeknights or lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• When storing, consider portioning it into single servings for easy access.

Freezing

• Let the chowder cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• 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 on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You may want to add a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen it up as it reheats.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful Vegan Corn Chowder.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn for Vegan Corn Chowder?

Absolutely! You can substitute fresh corn with about 4.5 cups (738g) of frozen corn or canned corn (drained). Both options will still yield a delicious chowder.

How do I make my Vegan Corn Chowder creamier?

For an extra creamy texture, you can blend a portion of the chowder after cooking and then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, adding more coconut milk will enhance its creaminess.

What can I serve with Vegan Corn Chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s comforting and nourishing, perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and sides. Enjoy each spoonful, and happy cooking!