Corn chowder is a thick soup that originated as a fish soup made rich by vegetables and thickening agents. The traditional New England style is made with a clear broth, heavy cream, and cornstarch. Corn chowder features corn kernels, potatoes, onions, and black pepper, and is often topped with cheese, butter, or sour cream. It is not vegetarian, as it requires pork fat and chicken stock. Vegan versions eliminate meat and dairy and puree the corn kernels.
A cold winter day in the snow is the perfect setting for a bowl of corn chowder. A thick soup heavy like gravy, but similar to stew, is a great way to warm up the body and satisfy an empty stomach. The word “soup” can trace its beginnings from the French word “chaudiere” which means cauldron. The British, however, also claim an interest in chowder with the word “jowter,” an Old English term referring to a fish peddler. In both cases, the soup was attributed to a meager or poor meal. In its humble beginnings, chowder was a type of fish soup made rich by the addition of vegetables and thickening agents. Eventually, other types of seafood would be used and clams would become the most popular ingredient.
The traditional soup is made from a clear broth, mixed with heavy cream and cornstarch, in order to thicken to the consistency of gravy. In the United States, this type of chowder is often referred to as “New England” style. Using tomato puree or gravy in soup instead of cream is often classified as “Manhattan” style.
Corn chowder is typically made in the New England style. Instead of clams or other seafood, corn chowder features corn kernels. In general, corn chowder is a hearty soup of corn, potatoes, yellow or green onions, and freshly ground black pepper. Different recipe variations call for the addition of peas, carrots, and even okra. Herbs and spices vary in use, as some cooks will add turmeric, a Mediterranean spice that colors soup bright yellow, while others will prefer to use nutmeg, to enhance the sweetness of the corn. Popular toppings for corn chowder include freshly grated cheddar cheese, pats of butter, and dollops of sour cream.
While it features a variety of vegetables, corn chowder shouldn’t be confused with a vegetarian staple. Most chowder recipes call for the rendering of pork fat, such as bacon or fat, to create a rich, smoky flavor. Also, chicken stock is generally required to create the base. Depending on the type of vegetarian diet, using heavy cream to thicken the soup may not be acceptable. Most vegan corn chowder recipes will call for the elimination of meats and dairy products and instead puree the corn kernels to recreate the thick soup. To maximize the flavor, simmer the corn husks in the soup until done.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
