Ham Chowder
Ingredients
- 10 bacon strips
diced
- 1 large onion
chopped
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1-1/2 cups water
- 2-1/2 cups cubed potatoes
- 1 can whole kernel corn
drained, 15-1/4 ounces
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules
- Pepper to taste
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
- Minced fresh parsley
optional
Directions
- 1
In a Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon strips to paper towels to drain.
- 2
In the bacon drippings, saute the chopped onion and diced carrots until tender.
- 3
Stir the flour into the bacon drippings until blended. Gradually add milk and water. Bring to a boil, cooking and stirring for two minutes or until thickened.
- 4
Add the potatoes, corn, bouillon and pepper. Reduce the heat, and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- 5
Add the cheese and cubed ham, and heat until the cheese is melted. Before serving, stir in the bacon bits. If desired, garnish with parsley and additional bacon.
Ham Chowder
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About this Recipe
Craving a bowl of comforting, hearty soup that feels like a warm hug? This Ham Chowder recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying experience perfect for any occasion. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, brimming with familiar flavors.
This chowder works its magic through a classic combination of ingredients, each playing a crucial role. The foundation begins with diced bacon, rendered to impart a smoky depth that permeates the entire dish. This flavorful fat then provides the perfect base for sautéing onion and carrots, building layers of savory sweetness before the creamy broth comes together with flour and whole milk. Every spoonful promises a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
What can you expect from a bowl of this Ham Chowder? Imagine a velvety smooth broth that's thick and luxurious, dotted with tender, yielding cubed potatoes and sweet bursts of whole kernel corn. The star, cubed fully cooked ham, adds a wonderfully savory and smoky counterpoint, while generous amounts of shredded cheddar cheese melt into the chowder, creating an irresistible richness. It’s a truly comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for chasing away a chill.
Feeling creative? You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Swap out the cheddar cheese for a sharp white cheddar or even a Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. While fully cooked ham is called for, feel free to use leftover holiday ham for an extra layer of flavor. For added vegetables, consider stirring in some frozen peas along with the corn towards the end of cooking.
This hearty Ham Chowder is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a comforting weekend lunch. Serve it simply with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or a light green salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of minced fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous finish.