Meatless Monday: Corn Chowder With Leeks

Corn chowder is something that has never been on my radar. I like corn, but I've never really considered making an entire soup based on it. That is, until last week I saw this recipe posted and realized that I could use up a bunch of veggies in my fridge and cans in my cupboard. As usual, I adjusted the recipe a bit to suit what I had on hand. Here's what I ended up using:

Corn Chowder

1 Tablespoon butter
2 large leeks, diced
2 cans corn
2 cups chicken broth (you could use veggie broth)
1-1/2 cups (12 fluid-ounce can) evaporated milk  (NOT condensed sweetened milk!)
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 Tablespoon chopped fresh chives

In a large saucepan over medium heat, saute leeks in the butter until they become soft, but not brown. Drain one can of corn and add to the leeks. Add the chicken or veggie broth and cook for 15 minutes, or until the corn is tender.

Remove from pan and blend (in batches if necessary) in a blender until smooth-ish. Return to the pot and add bell pepper, evaporated milk and the rest of the corn (drained). Simmer for another 10 - 15 minutes, or until peppers are soft. Add salt and pepper to taste, top with chives.


Two of my three kids gobbled it up - one even had seconds - while the third one actually spat it back into his bowl...he's a little melodramatic though. Mr. Greenhab exclaimed "This is phenomenal!" So I consider it a success. It will definitely be added into the regular rotation!

{Check out this and more great Meatless Monday recipes at Midnight Maniac.}