CHEF JACK’S CLASSIC CORN CHOWDER

CHEF JACK’S CLASSIC CORN CHOWDER

A rich, creamy comfort food featuring sweet corn and tender potatoes (30-minute version)

KEY INFO

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Can be adapted for vegetarian/vegan

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Alternative: Immersion blender (optional for extra creaminess)

INGREDIENTS

Base:

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 5 ears) or frozen corn
• 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced (450g/1lb)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (150g)
• 2 celery stalks, diced (100g)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Dairy & Fats:

• 4 tbsp butter (60g)
• 2 cups half-and-half (480ml)
• Optional: 4 bacon strips, diced

Liquids & Seasonings:

• 4 cups chicken stock (950ml) [vegetable stock for vegetarian]
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of smoked paprika

METHOD

1. If using fresh corn, cut kernels from cobs. Reserve cobs for extra flavor
2. In your pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (if using). Remove and set aside
3. In the same pot, melt butter. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened but not browned (3-4 minutes)
4. Add corn kernels, potatoes, and reserved corn cobs (if using). Pour in stock
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 12-15 minutes until potatoes are tender

6. Remove corn cobs. Stir in half-and-half
7. Season with thyme, salt, pepper, and optional paprika
8. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened

CRUCIAL TIPS

• Don’t boil after adding cream – it may curdle
• Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving

STORAGE & VARIATIONS

Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days
Freezing: Not recommended (dairy may separate)

Variations:

• Vegetarian: Skip bacon, use vegetable stock
• Lighter: Use milk instead of half-and-half
• Richer: Add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeño with vegetables

Common Mistakes:

• Overcooking potatoes
• Boiling instead of simmering
• Under-seasoning

Perfect for busy weeknights, this corn chowder delivers restaurant-quality results in just 30 minutes. The secret? Using those corn cobs for extra sweet corn flavor if you’re using fresh corn. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!