Easy Vegan Corn Chowder

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, then this Easy Vegan Corn Chowder is just what you need! There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy chowder on a warm summer evening. The blend of fresh corn, tender red potatoes, and vibrant red peppers creates a symphony of tastes that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe has quickly become one of my favorites because it’s simple to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free—making it suitable for almost everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chowder comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet corn and creamy texture, so it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without any complaints!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is not just tasty but also good for you. Enjoy a hearty meal that’s low in calories but high in flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this chowder ahead of time and reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week. It also freezes beautifully!
• Versatile Flavors: Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or vegetables. The options are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious chowder. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to put together!

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 large yellow onion (diced (about 3/4 cup))
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 3 medium-sized red potatoes (cubed (about 4 cups))
• 4 ears of corn (about 4 cups (see notes for substitution))
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

You will also need a soup pot and a blender to create this creamy delight.

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Vegan Corn Chowder is how flexible it is! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add Some Spice: If you love heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the mix for an extra kick.
• Switch Up the Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies such as zucchini or carrots—get creative based on what you have on hand!
• Use Different Broth: Swap out vegetable broth for homemade stock or even water if you’re short on supplies; just adjust seasonings accordingly.
• Top It Off: Experiment with different toppings like avocado slices, tortilla strips, or even nutritional yeast for an added cheesy flavor.

How to Make Easy Vegan Corn Chowder

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Pour olive oil into a large soup pot on low-medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté these until they’re soft, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your chowder.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once the onions and peppers are soft, stir in the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant—about one minute—then your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 3: Prepare the Corn

Shuck the corn and cut the kernels off each cob. This fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch to your chowder, elevating its overall taste.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now, add the vegetable broth, corn kernels, cubed potatoes, and seasonings into your pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer until those potatoes are tender—this takes about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Halfway Through

Using a ladle, scoop half of the chowder into your blender. Add in the full-fat coconut milk and blend until smooth. This step gives your chowder that creamy texture we all love.

Step 6: Mix It All Together

Pour the blended soup back into your pot and give it a good stir. Take a moment to taste your creation and adjust any seasonings if needed—it’s all about getting that perfect flavor!

Step 7: Serve with Love

Ladle your Easy Vegan Corn Chowder into bowls and top with chopped green onions for that lovely finishing touch. Enjoy this warm bowl of goodness with family or friends!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Vegan Corn Chowder

Making this chowder is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your cooking game and enhance the flavors!

• Fresh Corn is Best: Using fresh corn on the cob gives this chowder a sweet flavor and delightful texture. If it’s not in season, frozen corn works as a great substitute while still providing that satisfying taste.

• Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to add your own twist! A pinch of cayenne pepper or some smoked paprika can add depth and warmth, making this dish uniquely yours.

• Don’t Skip the Blending Step: Blending half of the soup creates a creamy texture that’s essential for chowders. It helps to marry all the flavors together and gives you that comforting creaminess without any dairy.

• Make it Ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day! Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to mingle beautifully—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious), keep them in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much.

How to Serve Easy Vegan Corn Chowder

This vegan corn chowder is not only delightful but also visually appealing. Presenting your dish beautifully can make mealtime extra special!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and sharp flavor, which contrast nicely with the creamy chowder.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love a little kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for added heat and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping! The crunchy texture and rich garlic flavor complement the creamy soup beautifully.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds crispness and balances out the richness of the chowder.
• Cornbread Muffins: Soft, sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup—a comforting pairing that feels like home.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring additional flavor and nutrients to your meal while enhancing its colorful presentation.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Easy Vegan Corn Chowder will not only be delicious but also an inviting centerpiece at your dining table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Vegan Corn Chowder is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• If possible, avoid adding toppings like green onions until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the chowder to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the chowder has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Easy Vegan Corn Chowder without fresh corn?

Yes! If fresh corn isn’t available, you can substitute with frozen corn (about 4 cups) or canned corn (drained), which work just as well.

How long does Easy Vegan Corn Chowder last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this chowder will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator, making it great for meal prep!

Is there a way to make this chowder spicier?

Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the vegetables to give your chowder a nice kick.

Can I use other types of potatoes in this recipe?

Yes! While red potatoes offer a creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Easy Vegan Corn Chowder?

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or even some tortilla chips for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Vegan Corn Chowder as much as I do! It’s not only comforting and delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love. Whether it’s a hot summer evening or a cozy winter night, this chowder is sure to warm your heart. Give it a try, and feel free to share your thoughts and variations with me. Happy cooking!