Smoked Ham, Potato & Corn Chowder

How to Make Smoked Ham, Potato & Corn Chowder

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Chop the potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a chunkier chowder, you can leave the pieces larger, but smaller cubes will cook faster and create a smoother texture.
• Dice the ham: If you’re using leftover smoked ham, cut it into small, bite-sized cubes.
• Chop the onions and garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic to add to the flavor base of the chowder.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Cook the onions and garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Make the Base for the Chowder

• Add the flour: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to create a roux (a thickening base), cooking for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
• Add the liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Then add the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until everything is well incorporated.

4. Cook the Potatoes

• Add the potatoes: Once the base is smooth and creamy, add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine.
• Simmer the chowder: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

5. Add the Ham and Corn

• Stir in the ham and corn: Once the potatoes are cooked, add the diced smoked ham and corn kernels to the pot. Stir well to combine.
• Season the chowder: Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the chowder simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the ham and corn to heat through.

6. Adjust the Consistency and Taste

• Check the consistency: If the chowder is too thick, you can add more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, continue to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken it up.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Give the chowder a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if necessary.

7. Serve and Garnish

• Garnish and serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad on the side for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Works

• Smoked ham adds depth: The smoked ham provides a rich, savory flavor that elevates the chowder. The smokiness complements the creamy base and adds a satisfying heartiness.
• Perfect texture balance: The combination of tender potatoes and sweet corn creates a delightful textural contrast in every spoonful, while the creamy broth ties everything together beautifully.
• Simple ingredients: This recipe uses common pantry staples, making it easy to prepare without a lot of fancy ingredients. Yet, the final result is a dish that feels indulgent and comforting.
• One-pot meal: This chowder is made in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time spent enjoying the meal with loved ones.

Tips for Success

• Use leftover ham: If you have leftover ham from a holiday meal or a roast, this chowder is the perfect way to repurpose it. The smoky flavor from the ham makes this dish even more flavorful.
• Make it vegetarian: If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra veggies like carrots, celery, or leeks for added flavor.
• Add a kick: For a little extra spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the chowder a mild heat. It complements the creamy texture perfectly.
• Freeze leftovers: This chowder freezes well, so make a big batch and freeze individual portions for later. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Conclusion

Smoked Ham, Potato & Corn Chowder is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for cold weather, family dinners, or any occasion when you crave something filling and flavorful. With its rich, creamy base and the perfect balance of smoky ham, tender potatoes, and sweet corn, this chowder will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, customizable, and versatile, making it a go-to recipe that can be enjoyed again and again. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a warm and satisfying meal that everyone will love!