Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder

Introduction

I love making comforting dishes that warm the soul, and Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder is one of my favorites. This rich and creamy chowder is the perfect combination of sweet, tender shrimp, hearty potatoes, and the delightful flavor of corn, all brought together with a comforting, flavorful broth. Every time I serve this chowder, it’s a hit. My family absolutely loves it — from the first spoonful to the very last drop, there’s never a bowl left over. The flavors meld so beautifully, and the creamy base is incredibly comforting. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for all seasons: the shrimp and corn add a refreshing note in warmer months, while the creamy soup is perfect for colder weather. If you’re looking for a soup that’s satisfying, flavorful, and easy to prepare, look no further. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 pound (450 grams) of shrimp, with shells and veins removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the shrimp)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into small pieces
• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
• 1 cup whole milk (for a creamier texture)
• Salt and pepper (to your liking)
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
   In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan, cut them into small pieces, and set them aside.
2. Make the Chowder:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables become soft and the onion turns translucent.
3. Add Potatoes and Corn:
   Stir in the diced potatoes and corn kernels. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the vegetables to mingle with the flavors.
4. Season the Soup:
   Add the smoked paprika, dried thyme, bay leaf, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir the spices into the vegetables to ensure they are well-coated.
5. Add Broth and Simmer:
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.
6. Make it Creamy:
   Once the potatoes are cooked through, stir in the heavy cream and whole milk (for a richer texture). Allow the chowder to simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
7. Add the Shrimp:
   Return the chopped shrimp to the chowder and stir to combine. Let the shrimp heat through for 2-3 minutes.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference.
9. Serve:
   Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top and a wedge of lemon on the side. Enjoy this comforting bowl of chowder!

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 380 kcal
Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 870mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 170mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve
Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder is best served hot and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Serve in Bowls: Spoon the chowder into individual bowls, making sure to add some shrimp and vegetables in each one.
• Garnish with Parsley: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top of each bowl for a fresh, vibrant pop of color.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with a wedge of lemon on the side. A squeeze of lemon adds a nice zesty contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Crusty Bread: Pair the chowder with warm, crusty bread or buttered rolls for dipping.
• Cheese Croutons: For extra texture, top the chowder with crispy cheese croutons or shredded cheese.

Additional Tips

1. Shrimp Cooking Tip: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when you’re sautéing them. They cook quickly, so aim for 2-3 minutes per side, and they’ll be tender and juicy when added to the chowder.
2. Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter version, you can use whole milk instead of heavy cream. However, for extra richness, stick to the heavy cream!
3. Add Fresh Herbs: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like dill or thyme to elevate the flavor of the chowder.
4. Use Frozen Corn: If fresh corn isn’t in season, frozen corn works just as well and will give you that lovely sweetness in every bite.
5. Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, the cayenne pepper is optional but adds a nice kick to balance the sweetness of the corn. Add more or less depending on your spice preference.

Recipe Variations

1. Corn and Crab Chowder: Swap the shrimp with crab meat for a luxurious twist. This variation gives the chowder an even sweeter, oceanic flavor.
2. Vegan Corn and “Shrimp” Chowder: For a vegan version, replace the shrimp with a plant-based shrimp substitute and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add smoked tofu for texture.
3. Spicy Cajun Chowder: Add a bit of Cajun seasoning along with the smoked paprika for a deeper, spicier flavor.
4. Potato-Free Chowder: For a lower-carb version, replace the potatoes with cauliflower for a similar texture but fewer carbs.
5. Lobster and Corn Chowder: Add lobster chunks instead of shrimp for a truly decadent seafood chowder.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for a Family Dinner: This chowder makes an excellent main course for a family dinner. Pair it with a light salad or a few slices of toasted bread for a complete meal.
• Special Occasions: Serve this chowder for a special occasion like a holiday gathering, birthday dinner, or seafood-themed dinner party.
• Comfort Food: Ideal for cold days or when you’re craving a hearty, warming soup. Pair it with your favorite winter comfort foods for a cozy meal.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch of chowder and store it in the fridge for a quick meal throughout the week.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: While chowders with cream can sometimes change texture when frozen, this recipe can be frozen. However, be mindful that the cream may separate slightly upon reheating. To freeze, allow the chowder to cool, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, stir well to reincorporate the cream.
• Storage: Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking.
2. Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
   Yes, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the chowder?
   Absolutely! You can add carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini for more vegetables and flavor.
4. How can I thicken the chowder?
   If you want a thicker chowder, add a slurry made from equal parts flour and water, or use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.
5. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
   You can use vegetable broth as a substitute to make it a vegetarian chowder.
6. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
   Yes, if you’re using pre-cooked shrimp, just add it at the end of the cooking process, allowing it to heat through.
7. **Can I make this chowder spicy?**
   Yes, you can add more cayenne pepper or even some hot sauce to give it an extra kick.
8. Is this chowder suitable for meal prep?
   Yes, it stores well for a few days in the fridge and can be reheated easily.
9. Can I make this chowder in advance?
   Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently.
10. How can I add more flavor to the broth?
    For a more flavorful broth, add a couple of bay leaves or a splash of white wine while simmering the vegetables.

Conclusion

Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder is the ultimate comfort food: rich, creamy, and filled with sweet shrimp, corn, and hearty potatoes. This recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a family meal or special occasion. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or hosting a gathering, this chowder is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its versatility and delicious texture, this chowder will become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine. Enjoy!

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