What To Know
- Prepare the chowder on a weekend or slow evening and have it ready to eat throughout the week.
- Transfer the desired amount of chowder to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- To reheat, thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator or on the countertop for several hours.
Corn chowder is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly nights. But can you make corn chowder ahead of time to save time and effort? The answer is a resounding yes! By following a few simple steps, you can prepare this delicious soup in advance and enjoy it at your convenience.
The Benefits of Making Corn Chowder Ahead of Time
- Convenience: Prepare the chowder on a weekend or slow evening and have it ready to eat throughout the week.
- Time-saving: Eliminate the need to cook a meal from scratch on busy weeknights.
- Flavor development: Allowing the chowder to rest overnight allows the flavors to deepen and meld together.
- Flexibility: Prepare the chowder up to 3 days in advance, giving you more flexibility in meal planning.
How to Make Corn Chowder Ahead of Time
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 cups chopped potatoes
- 2 cups frozen corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the potatoes: Stir in the chopped potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the corn: Stir in the frozen corn kernels and thyme. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the corn is heated through.
5. Season to taste: Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cool and refrigerate: Let the chowder cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating the Corn Chowder
- Stovetop: Reheat the chowder over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer the desired amount of chowder to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Tips for the Best Corn Chowder
- Use fresh or frozen corn. Fresh corn will give the chowder the best flavor, but frozen corn is a convenient alternative.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes. They should be tender but not mushy.
- Season to taste. The amount of salt and pepper needed will vary depending on your preferences.
- Add other vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables to the chowder, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
- Make it creamy. For a richer flavor, use more heavy cream or add a splash of evaporated milk.
Variations on the Classic Corn Chowder
- Seafood corn chowder: Add cooked shrimp, clams, or fish to the chowder.
- Spicy corn chowder: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño for a kick.
- Cheesy corn chowder: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy and cheesy flavor.
- Vegetarian corn chowder: Omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead.
How to Freeze Corn Chowder
- Let the chowder cool completely.
- Transfer the chowder to freezer-safe containers, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator or on the countertop for several hours. Then, reheat over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned corn in the chowder?
A: Yes, you can use canned corn. However, fresh or frozen corn will give the chowder a better flavor.
Q: How long can I store the corn chowder in the refrigerator?
A: The chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make the chowder in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make the chowder in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: What can I serve with corn chowder?
A: Corn chowder can be served with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the chowder?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables to the chowder, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
In a nutshell
Making corn chowder ahead of time is a great way to save time and enjoy a delicious meal. By following these steps and tips, you can prepare this comforting soup in advance and have it ready to eat whenever you crave it. So next time you’re looking for a convenient and flavorful meal, consider making a batch of corn chowder ahead of time!
