Ham Chowder: A Delicious & Easy Recipe You’ll Love

Ham Chowder: Just the name conjures up images of cozy evenings, crackling fireplaces, and the comforting aroma of a hearty, creamy soup simmering on the stove. Have you ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out? Well, look no further! This isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary masterpiece that transforms leftover holiday ham into a delectable and satisfying meal.

Chowders, in general, have a rich history, originating as a humble fisherman’s stew along the coastlines of Europe and North America. They were a way to use up the day’s catch and whatever vegetables were on hand. Our version, Ham Chowder, takes that tradition of resourcefulness and elevates it with the savory goodness of smoked ham. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly extraordinary.

People adore this dish for so many reasons. The creamy texture, the smoky ham, the tender potatoes, and the sweet corn all come together in perfect harmony. It’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend lunches. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or a way to repurpose that leftover ham, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups peeled and diced Yukon Gold potatoes (about 1/2-inch dice)
• 1 cup diced carrots (about 1/4-inch dice)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups diced cooked ham (about 1/2-inch dice)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup frozen corn
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt to taste

Sautéing the Aromatics

Okay, let’s get started! First, we’re going to build a flavor base for our chowder. Grab a large pot or Dutch oven – something with a heavy bottom works best to distribute the heat evenly. Place it over medium heat and add the olive oil. Let the oil heat up for a minute or two until it shimmers.

1. Add the onion: Once the oil is hot, add the diced yellow onion. We want to cook the onion until it’s softened and translucent, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent it from browning too much. We’re looking for a gentle softening, not caramelization.
2. Add the garlic: When the onion is softened, add the minced garlic. Garlic burns easily, so we only want to cook it for about 30 seconds to a minute, until it’s fragrant. Stir constantly to prevent burning. The aroma of garlic sizzling in the oil is one of my favorite kitchen smells!

Building the Chowder Base

Now that we’ve got our aromatics going, it’s time to build the heart of the chowder. This is where the broth and vegetables come in to create that creamy, comforting base we’re after.

3. Add the broth and vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – those bits are packed with flavor! Then, add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes and diced carrots. The Yukon Gold potatoes will give the chowder a lovely creamy texture as they cook.
4. Season the broth: Add the dried thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). The thyme adds a subtle earthy note, while the pepper flakes give a little kick. Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking – a little goes a long way!
5. Simmer the chowder: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Adding the Ham and Finishing Touches

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to add the star of the show – the ham – and those final touches that will make this chowder truly special.

6. Add the ham: Stir in the diced cooked ham. We’re adding it towards the end so it doesn’t become too tough or dry. The ham will warm through in just a few minutes.
7. Stir in the cream and corn: Pour in the heavy cream and add the frozen corn. The heavy cream will make the chowder incredibly rich and decadent, while the corn adds a touch of sweetness and texture.
8. Heat through: Heat the chowder through, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. Be careful not to boil it after adding the cream, as it can curdle. We just want it to be nice and hot.
9. Season to taste: Taste the chowder and season with salt to taste. Remember that the ham is already salty, so you might not need much salt. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Serving the Ham Chowder

Finally, the moment we’ve been waiting for – serving up this delicious Ham Chowder! This is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day, and it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

10. Garnish and serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. The parsley adds a pop of freshness and color. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you like.
11. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy! This Ham Chowder is delicious on its own, but it’s also great with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

• Type of Ham: You can use any type of cooked ham you like in this chowder. Leftover holiday ham is perfect, but you can also use deli ham or a ham steak.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the chowder, such as celery, bell peppers, or peas.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you don’t like spice, you can omit them altogether.
• Creaminess: For an even creamier chowder, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cream. Be careful not to over-blend it, as you still want some chunks of vegetables.
• Make it Lighter: To make a lighter version of this chowder, you can use milk instead of heavy cream. You can also use a lower-fat ham.
• Storage: Leftover chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: While this chowder can be frozen, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly. If you plan to freeze it, it’s best to undercook the potatoes slightly.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with crusty bread or crackers.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or dill.
• Serve as a starter or a main course.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

(Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

• Calories: 400-500
• Fat: 25-35g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g

I hope you enjoy this Ham Chowder recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Ham Chowder isn’t just another soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic elevated to something truly special. The creamy texture, the savory ham, and the perfectly cooked vegetables all come together in a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves hearty, satisfying meals, especially on a chilly evening. It’s the kind of dish that becomes a family favorite, requested time and time again. But don’t just take my word for it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment and make it your own. For a richer, more decadent experience, try using heavy cream instead of milk. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based milk alternative like oat milk. I’ve even tried adding a splash of sherry at the end for an extra layer of complexity – it’s absolutely divine! Serving suggestions are endless. A crusty loaf of sourdough bread is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chowder. And for a truly complete meal, consider serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches for the kids (and the adults, let’s be honest!). Looking to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. If you have leftover roasted vegetables, toss them in for added flavor and texture. And if you’re a fan of seafood, consider adding some cooked shrimp or scallops to the chowder for a truly luxurious experience. I’ve made this Ham Chowder countless times, and each time it’s a little different, depending on what I have on hand and what I’m in the mood for. That’s the magic of cooking – it’s all about experimenting and finding what works best for you. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This recipe is straightforward, easy to follow, and yields incredible results. It’s the perfect way to impress your family and friends, or simply treat yourself to a comforting and delicious meal. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade Ham Chowder. Once you do, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using #MyHamChowderAdventure. Let me know what variations you tried, what you served it with, and most importantly, what you thought! I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your stories. Happy cooking! And remember, the best meals are made with love and shared with those you care about. This chowder is definitely one of those meals.

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