Craving a warm, comforting bowl of chowder that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your soul? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Vegetable Chowder! Packed with vibrant vegetables and creamy goodness, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brimming with flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. With just 15 minutes of prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can create a hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family gatherings. Dive into our recipe and discover how to whip up this delightful chowder that will leave everyone asking for your secret ingredient!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for vegan)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your vegetables. Dice the potatoes into small cubes, chop the celery and onion, and dice the carrots. This will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture in your chowder.
- In your slow cooker, add the 4 cups of vegetable broth as the base for your chowder. This will provide the necessary liquid and flavor.
- Next, add the diced potatoes, chopped celery, diced carrots, and corn to the slow cooker. These vegetables will add a variety of textures and flavors to your chowder.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of thyme, which will infuse the chowder with a lovely herbal aroma. Adjust the amount of thyme according to your preference.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, as you can always add more later.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 6 hours, check the vegetables for tenderness. If they are cooked to your liking, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk for a vegan option) to add creaminess to the chowder.
- Allow the chowder to cook for an additional 30 minutes on low to heat the cream and blend the flavors together.
- Once ready, taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or thyme according to your preference.
- Serve the vegetable chowder hot, garnished with fresh herbs or croutons if desired. Enjoy your hearty and comforting meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy days, chop your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge. This way, you can simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach can be great additions to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your chowder.
- Thicken It Up: If you prefer a thicker chowder, consider mashing a portion of the potatoes before adding the cream. This will create a creamier texture without needing additional thickeners.
- Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning! Taste your chowder before serving and add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your palate.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your chowder by garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or add a sprinkle of croutons for a delightful crunch.
- Leftovers Delight: This chowder keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy a quick, nourishing meal anytime!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 229kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 50mg
