Country Ham and Potato Chowder Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to our delicious and hearty country ham and potato chowder recipe. This comforting dish is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and satisfying. Made with tender chunks of country ham and flavorful potatoes, this chowder will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
– 1 pound country ham, diced
– 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– Crumbled bacon
– Shredded cheddar cheese
Steps
Follow these steps to prepare the delicious country ham and potato chowder:
Step 1: Sauté the Ham and Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced country ham and cook until lightly browned. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
In a separate saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream over low heat until warm. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the pot with the ham and potatoes, stirring well to combine.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Variations
Here are a few variations you can try with this recipe:
Vegetarian Option:
Replace the country ham with vegetarian bacon or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version of this chowder.
Seafood Chowder:
Add cooked shrimp, crab meat, or chunks of white fish to the chowder for a delicious seafood twist.
Spicy Kick:
Add a diced jalapeno or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for some extra heat in your chowder.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect country ham and potato chowder:
– Use good quality country ham for the best flavor. Look for ham that is not too salty.
– Feel free to adjust the thickness of the chowder by adding more or less milk and cream.
– For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the chowder using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
– Leftover chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this delicious country ham and potato chowder recipe. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a side dish, this chowder is sure to impress your family and friends. Bon appétit!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular ham instead of country ham?
While country ham adds a unique flavor to this chowder, you can substitute it with regular ham if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the saltiness accordingly.
2. Can I freeze the chowder?
While it’s possible to freeze the chowder, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. We recommend enjoying it fresh for the best taste and consistency.
3. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different potato varieties such as Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or russet potatoes. Each will bring a slightly different texture to the chowder.