Easy Corn Chowder

Bring the comforting flavors of traditional corn chowder to the tropics with a twist! This creamy, hearty soup combines sweet corn, smoky bacon, and tender potatoes with the vibrant addition of coconut milk. Perfect for cool evenings or a casual gathering, this dish is a delicious blend of classic and tropical flavors.

What is the origin of corn chowder?

Corn chowder is believed to have originated in the United States, where it evolved as a hearty, comforting dish influenced by Native American and colonial cooking traditions. Native Americans introduced early European settlers to corn, a staple crop in their diets, and shared techniques for incorporating it into various dishes.

The chowder itself is rooted in New England culinary traditions, where the word “chowder” is thought to derive from the French term *chaudière* (a type of cooking pot). Over time, the combination of corn, potatoes, and cream became a popular adaptation, reflecting the region’s agricultural bounty and preference for rich, satisfying meals.

Variations of corn chowder have since spread, incorporating local ingredients and influences, like the Hawaiian-style version with coconut milk and pineapple.

What ingredients go into this Corn Chowder recipe?

Use fresh sweet corn for the best flavor, cutting the kernels off the cob. Frozen or canned corn can also work, but fresh will give a brighter, more natural sweetness. Roasting or lightly grilling the corn before using adds a smoky, caramelized note that enhances the dish.

Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture when cooked, or waxy varieties like Yukon Gold for a firmer bite. Dice them into small, uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. For extra depth, you can leave the skin on for a rustic look and added nutrients.

Opt for a crispy, smoky vegan bacon to mimic the traditional flavor. Popular choices include tempeh bacon, coconut bacon, or store-bought brands made from seitan or soy. Fry or bake until crisp before crumbling into the chowder.

A yellow or white onion works best for a mild, slightly sweet flavor base. Finely dice to ensure the onion melts into the soup while sautéing. For a subtler taste, you can use shallots or a sweet onion variety.

Fresh garlic cloves are ideal for robust flavor. Mince or finely chop for even cooking. Add more or less garlic depending on your taste preference—two to three cloves usually balance the soup well.

Use plant-based butter for richness and to help sauté the aromatics. Look for options with a creamy texture and neutral flavor, such as those made from coconut oil or cashew-based products. Brands like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance are excellent choices.

A high-quality vegetable broth acts as the soup’s foundation. Opt for low-sodium varieties to control the saltiness of the dish. Homemade broth with celery, carrots, and herbs will elevate the chowder with deeper flavors.

Oat milk brings a creamy, neutral base that blends seamlessly into the chowder. Choose unsweetened and unflavored oat milk for the best results. Barista-style oat milk works particularly well as it has a thicker consistency and richer texture.

How to make Corn Chowder?

Start with finally chopping the peeled onion and peeling the garlic cloves. Note that the vegan bacon is assumed to be cooked already. Make sure that it is crispy before you get started.

Now, heat plant-based butter in a large pot and sauté the onions and pressed garlic for about 5 minutes on medium-high heat. 

Then, add the peeled and halved potatoes and the corn. Give the oat milk and vegetable broth to the pot as well and bring the mix to a boil. Let all simmer for about 12-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. 

Finally, serve with the crispy bacon.

Popular Variations

Here are three delightful variations of corn chowder to suit different tastes and preferences:

1. Infuse the chowder with bold Southwestern flavors by adding roasted poblano peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, and a pinch of chili powder. Mix in black beans and diced tomatoes for heartiness, and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese (or a vegan alternative).
2. Add a coastal twist by incorporating fresh seafood like shrimp, crab, or clams. Sauté the seafood separately before folding it into the chowder just before serving. Enhance the broth with a splash of white wine and a touch of Old Bay seasoning for a briny, savory flavor.
3. Go global by blending curry powder or Thai curry paste with the coconut milk. Include additional vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, and finish with a swirl of lime juice and fresh basil. This variation pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or naan on the side.

Other recipes to try

• Fried Corn
• Corn Salad
• Corn Soup
• Corn Dip
• Cream Corn Casserole

I hope you love this twist on classic corn chowder as much as I do!

If you give it a try, snap a photo and share it on Instagram or Facebook—I’d love to see your creations!

Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts and a star rating; your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover this delicious recipe.