Creamy Corn Chowder with Peppers (Print)
A rich, comforting bowl of sweet corn and colorful peppers in a creamy, smoky broth
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
02 - 1 large red bell pepper, diced
03 - 1 large yellow bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 2 stalks celery, diced
→ Dairy & Liquids
08 - 3 cups vegetable broth
09 - 1 cup whole milk or unsweetened oat/soy milk for vegan
10 - 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for vegan
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil for vegan
→ Herbs & Seasonings
12 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1 bay leaf
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
16 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped for garnish
# How to Make:
01 - Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
02 - Stir in diced bell peppers and potatoes. Cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to begin softening.
03 - Add corn kernels, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine flavors.
04 - Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
05 - Remove bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, partially purée the soup until about half the vegetables are blended, leaving some chunks for texture.
06 - Stir in milk and cream. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring often. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
07 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chives or parsley.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- You'll adore how quickly this soup comes together, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights.
- The balance of sweet corn, tender vegetables, and smoky paprika creates a comforting flavor profile that feels both familiar and special.
02 -
- Resist the urge to purée the entire soup; leaving some vegetable chunks is crucial for that satisfying chowder texture.
- Always add milk and cream towards the end of the cooking process and avoid bringing the soup to a rolling boil once they've been added, as it can cause them to curdle.
03 -
- Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper; different broths and ingredients can change the final seasoning needs.
- Allowing the soup to simmer gently for the full recommended time lets all the flavors really meld and deepen, so resist the urge to rush this step.