Get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort with our Corn and Pancetta Chowder! This creamy, savory delight combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the rich, salty crunch of pancetta, creating a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dish to serve guests, this chowder is not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just 45 minutes from prep to table, you’ll be enjoying a warm, hearty meal in no time. Dive into this delightful recipe and discover how to transform simple ingredients into a gourmet experience!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices pancetta, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Place a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the pancetta becomes crisp and releases its fat, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- In the same pot with pancetta fat, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth and corn kernels, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, allowing the corn to become tender.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, ensuring it's fully incorporated without boiling.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Return the crispy pancetta to the pot and stir to distribute evenly.
- Ladle the chowder into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives.
- Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh corn kernels when in season. If fresh corn isn't available, frozen corn will work just fine—just make sure it's thawed before adding it to the pot.
- Crisp the Pancetta: Don’t rush the pancetta! Cook it slowly to render out the fat and achieve that perfect crispiness, which adds depth to your chowder.
- Sautéing is Key: Make sure to sauté the onions until they’re translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your chowder.
- Control the Heat: When adding the heavy cream, keep the heat low to prevent it from curdling. Stir gently to incorporate it smoothly into the chowder.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your chowder before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preference, and don’t be shy about adding more if needed!
- Garnish with Freshness: A sprinkle of chopped chives not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, oniony flavor that complements the chowder beautifully.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your chowder with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping—it's the perfect way to soak up every last drop of this delicious dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
