Indulge in creamy delight: the step-by-step guide to making corn chowder with evaporated milk

In the realm of comfort food, corn chowder reigns supreme. Its creamy texture, sweet corn kernels, and savory flavors make it a beloved dish for all seasons. While traditional recipes often call for heavy cream, evaporated milk offers a lighter, yet equally delicious alternative. This blog post will guide you through the art of “How to Make Corn Chowder with Evaporated Milk,” empowering you to create a culinary masterpiece that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.

The Magic of Evaporated Milk

Evaporated milk is a shelf-stable dairy product that has approximately 60% of its water content removed. This results in a thick, creamy texture that adds richness and depth to soups, sauces, and chowders. Unlike heavy cream, evaporated milk is lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make corn chowder with evaporated milk, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can kernel corn, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can cream-style corn
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the Corn

Stir in the drained kernel corn and cream-style corn. Cook for 2 minutes, or until the corn is heated through.

3. Make the Roux

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the flour mixture over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, or until the flour is absorbed.

4. Add the Broth

Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Add the Evaporated Milk

Stir in the evaporated milk and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chowder has thickened.

6. Season to Taste

Taste the chowder and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or thyme to your liking.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the corn chowder into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added flavor and color.

Tips for the Perfect Chowder

• Use fresh or frozen corn. For the best flavor, use fresh or frozen corn kernels. Canned corn can have a metallic taste.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables. The vegetables should be tender but still retain a slight crunch.
• Add other vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables to your chowder, such as potatoes, green beans, or peas.
• Make it spicy. If you like spicy food, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chowder.
• Top it off. Serve the corn chowder with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Corn Chowder

Corn chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chowder over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Summary: A Culinary Delight

With its creamy texture, sweet corn flavor, and savory seasonings, corn chowder made with evaporated milk is a dish that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch, this recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use skim milk instead of evaporated milk?
A: Skim milk will not provide the same richness and creaminess as evaporated milk. However, you can use 1 cup of milk plus 1/4 cup of cornstarch to create a similar consistency.

Q: How can I make my corn chowder thicker?
A: To thicken your corn chowder, you can add more flour or cornstarch. Start by adding 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch at a time and cook until the desired consistency is reached.

Q: Can I freeze corn chowder?
A: Yes, you can freeze corn chowder for up to 3 months. Allow the chowder to cool completely before freezing it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw the chowder in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it over medium heat.