Warm up your kitchen and tantalize your taste buds with a bowl of Sweet Potato Ham and Corn Chowder! This creamy, comforting dish is a delightful twist on classic chowder, combining the sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with savory ham and the vibrant crunch of corn. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to whip up in just 40 minutes but also promises to impress your family and friends. Ready to discover the secret to this mouthwatering chowder? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add peeled and diced sweet potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to start softening and absorbing the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that the sweet potatoes are fully covered. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add the drained corn and diced ham to the pot. Stir to distribute evenly and allow the ingredients to heat through for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the milk, stirring gently to incorporate. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chowder to thicken slightly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and ensure all ingredients are heated uniformly.
- Remove from heat and let the chowder rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the chowder into warm bowls and serve immediately. Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can peel and dice the sweet potatoes and onions ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
- Choose the Right Pot: Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even cooking and prevent the chowder from sticking to the bottom.
- Perfectly Tender Sweet Potatoes: Make sure to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking. They should be tender but not mushy when you add the ham and corn.
- Customize Your Chowder: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the ham with cooked bacon or sausage for a different twist.
- Thicker Chowder: If you prefer a thicker chowder, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the milk, or mash some of the sweet potatoes against the side of the pot to release their starch.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness!
- Storage Tips: Leftover chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg
