Sweet Potato Corn Chowder

This creamy and hearty Sweet Potato Corn Chowder is the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Loaded with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors, this one-pot soup is not only nutritious but also easy to make. With its inviting aroma and delightful texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This chowder comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sweet potatoes, corn, and spices creates a deliciously rich taste that warms the soul.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables like kale and red bell pepper, this soup is loaded with vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side dish, it pairs well with crusty bread or salad.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Potato masher

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and allows ample space for all ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Potato masher: Helps achieve the desired texture by breaking up sweet potatoes without turning them into puree.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Sweet Potato Corn Chowder, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 to 5 slices turkey bacon (chopped)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 8 grinds fresh black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups kale (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 Tablespoons flour
• 1½ cups corn (fresh cut off the cob or frozen)
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups half & half
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

How to Make Sweet Potato Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop all the vegetables. Peel the sweet potatoes, cutting them into half-inch rounds. Stack several rounds to cut them into strips, then into cubes.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the chopped turkey bacon. Cook until crisp, stirring occasionally for about 7 to 9 minutes. Remove cooked bacon to a bowl. Depending on your preference, you may choose to discard some drippings but keep at least 1 tablespoon in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Using the remaining drippings in the pot, sauté the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and sweet potatoes. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir occasionally for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Add Kale and Garlic

Add chopped kale and minced garlic to the pot along with two tablespoons of flour. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Simmer with Stock

Pour in corn and chicken stock. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat until sweet potatoes are tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Use a potato masher to lightly break up some sweet potatoes while keeping others chunky.

Step 6: Finish with Half & Half

Stir in half & half for creaminess. You can garnish each bowl with reserved turkey bacon bits and fresh cilantro or mix them directly into the soup. Simmer for an additional five minutes until thickened.

Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Corn Chowder!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Corn Chowder

Serving Sweet Potato Corn Chowder is all about enhancing its delicious flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to make the most out of your chowder.

With Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives or Green Onions: Add finely chopped chives or green onions for a mild onion taste.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty French Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy chowder.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Pair with garlic breadsticks for a tasty, buttery contrast.

As a Complete Meal

• Topped with Protein: Add grilled chicken or turkey slices on top for extra protein.
• Vegetarian Options: Include roasted chickpeas for a crunchy texture that complements the soup.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Corn Chowder

To ensure your Sweet Potato Corn Chowder reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought for richer flavor.
• Creamy Consistency: Blend part of the soup before adding half & half to create an ultra-creamy texture.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn when in season for sweetness; frozen corn is a great alternative otherwise.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, as stock can be salty.
• Chowder Thickness: For a thicker chowder, add more flour or use less liquid during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Corn Chowder

Pairing side dishes with your Sweet Potato Corn Chowder can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this hearty soup perfectly.

1. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the chowder’s creaminess.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add flavor and nutrition while pairing well with the chowder’s sweetness.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory chowder.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa and vegetables offer a nutritious side option.
5. Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve tortilla chips for crunch, perfect for dipping into the chowder.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese pairs wonderfully, offering comfort alongside your chowder.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sweet Potato Corn Chowder, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them.

• Bold Ingredients: Not measuring ingredients correctly can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always use precise measurements for spices and vegetables.
• Bold Cooking Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the chowder. Keep the heat medium to low, especially when simmering.
• Bold Texture Issues: Over-blending the sweet potatoes can create a mushy texture. Use a potato masher gently to keep some chunks in your chowder.
• Bold Timing Mistakes: Ignoring cooking times can result in undercooked vegetables. Follow the recommended times closely for perfect softness.
• Bold Garnish Neglect: Forgetting to garnish your chowder can make it less appealing. Add fresh cilantro or crispy bacon on top for presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the chowder cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Sweet Potato Corn Chowder

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Sweet Potato Corn Chowder

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chowder in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chowder in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chowder into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sweet Potato Corn Chowder.

Can I add other vegetables to Sweet Potato Corn Chowder?

Yes! You can include veggies like carrots, zucchini, or celery to enhance flavor and nutrition.

What can I use instead of half & half in Sweet Potato Corn Chowder?

You can use almond milk, coconut cream, or any non-dairy milk substitute for a lighter version.

How do I thicken Sweet Potato Corn Chowder?

If you want a thicker consistency, mash some of the sweet potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry.

Is Sweet Potato Corn Chowder freezable?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container and freeze it for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Corn Chowder is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or toppings. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and weeknight meals, so give it a try!