Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Creamy Corn Chowder



Corn chowder has been called the "king of farmhouse chowders". Throughout the history of America, corn and salt pork have been staples farms across the nation, and it's these ingredients that have been central to corn chowder recipes. Historically, the first mention of corn chowder was in a cookbook was in 1884 when it was listed in the Boston Cooking School Cookbook. Noted cookbook author Fannie Farmer later published the recipe which incorporated her method of using canned corn. Shakers, highly regarded for their culinary skills, were known for their delightful and rich chowders. Traditionally corn chowders are abundant in butter, cream, condensed milk, thickened flour or egg yolks, and
salt pork for fat and flavor.

Cooking methods and trends evolve throughout the years. Resources, health trends, and food preparation techniques all play a role in this evolution. A very healthy, easy, and economical version of corn chowder can be obtained without losing it's element of mellow, sweet flavor and beautiful color. This vegan and gluten-free version is an ultimate comfort food and loved by both young and old.

My version comes from the bulk foods section of the health food store. To use, I simply add hot water and any other ingredients that I might have which I feel would enhance the blend (in the photo illustration you can see I added chopped spinach). The ingredients contained in this bulk mix are:

dried yellow pea flakes
dehydrated corn
salt
dehydrated onion & carrots
vegetarian chicken-style seasoning
canola oil
parsley
celery seed

How simple is that? It's a dairy-free, gluten-free and low fat version of a delicious and creamy soup! In addition, it's economical, costing less than $2.00 for four servings. It's a simple, quick, and comforting way to relax at the end of a busy day --- a hot bowl of healthy corn chowder. Yummy!

7 comments:

  1. It looks just yummy! and sounds so easy too!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. I love corn chowder...such comfort! Thanks for the recipe!

    ReplyDelete
  3. I adore chowders...my favorite corn chowder is a cheesy one so I guess that wouldn't work well with your family's diet needs. Yes, they are definitely economical and hearty and comforting! Hmmmm, lunch is just enough time away to toss one together...

    ReplyDelete
  4. Oh, yummm - I love the flavor AND the cost!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Anonymous7:49 AM

    This looks like a good recipe. Thank you. I do love corn chowder. Your post was so intewresting. I enjoyed reading it. Happy day :>)

    ReplyDelete
  6. That sounds just wonderful! I think I'll get it on the list for next week.
    I trust life is well for you.
    Spring is coming. :)

    ReplyDelete
  7. I haven't made corn chowder this year, it sounds good, maybe I'll make some!

    Katherine

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for commenting on my blog post. I am always happy to hear from blog readers. Your words encourage and inspire me. I am glad you stopped by to share conversation, recipes, ideas, and thoughts on creating a welcoming home.