Sweet Potato Chowder

Introduction

There’s something about a bowl of chowder that just feels like a warm hug after a long, busy day. And when it’s a rich, creamy sweet potato chowder filled with savory spices, hearty veggies, and a hint of sweetness, well, that’s next-level comfort food. Whether you’re curled up with a blanket on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, this chowder hits all the right notes.

What I love most about this sweet potato chowder is how easy it is to make while still packing in so much flavor. The sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness, perfectly balanced by savory ingredients like onion, garlic, and celery. Add in the creamy base and a touch of spice, and you’ve got a dish that’s both filling and soothing. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was craving something hearty yet healthy. I’ve since made it countless times—on weeknights when I’m short on time, and during weekend get-togethers when I want to impress my guests with something flavorful. It’s become a go-to in my household, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Chowder

This recipe is not only super simple, but it’s also incredibly delicious. Here are some reasons why I think you’ll absolutely love this chowder:

• Creamy Comfort: The texture of this chowder is pure perfection. It’s thick and velvety, yet light enough that you won’t feel weighed down after a bowl (or two!).
• Naturally Sweet & Savory: The sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness, but it’s perfectly complemented by the savory flavors from the broth and spices.
• Great for Meal Prep: This chowder stores beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or part of a weekend spread, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

This sweet potato chowder is hearty enough to be a meal on its own but can easily be paired with a side of warm crusty bread or a simple salad.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories per serving: 300
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 52g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 8g

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Chowder

Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy, creamy chowder:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian options)
• 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer version)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for a zesty finish)

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role. The sweet potatoes bring that perfect natural sweetness, while the spices (cumin, paprika, turmeric, and thyme) balance out the flavors beautifully. The coconut milk gives the chowder a rich, creamy texture without overpowering the taste, and the corn adds a bit of sweetness and texture. The best part? It’s all made from simple, accessible ingredients!

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Sweet Potato Chowder

Making this sweet potato chowder is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy techniques. Here’s the breakdown of how to make this soul-warming dish:

1. Prep the Veggies:
   Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Chop your onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. You want all the veggies to be similar in size to ensure even cooking.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
   In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Next, toss in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Root Veggies and Spices:
   Add the diced sweet potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes to soften the vegetables slightly. Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and dried thyme, stirring to coat the veggies evenly with the spices. This is where the magic happens, and your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Pour in the Broth and Coconut Milk:
   Now it’s time to add the liquid! Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and the coconut milk. Stir everything together, making sure the sweet potatoes and veggies are submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Blend (Optional for a Creamy Texture):
   This step is optional, but it will give the chowder a velvety, creamy texture. Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the soup in the pot until smooth, leaving some chunks of sweet potatoes and vegetables for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer about half of the chowder to a blender, puree, and then return it to the pot.
6. Add Corn and Simmer:
   Once you’ve blended the chowder, stir in the corn kernels. Let the chowder simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, or extra spices to your liking. If you like a little tang, squeeze in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
8. Serve and Garnish:
   Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Chowder

This chowder is perfect on its own but can be paired with various side dishes for a complete meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, buttered crusty bread is perfect for dipping into this creamy chowder.
• Side Salad: Pair with a simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the chowder.
• Toppings: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese would add a fun, creamy twist.

For something a little heartier, serve the chowder alongside some garlic bread or roasted vegetables.

Additional Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Chowder

Here are a few tips to help ensure your chowder turns out perfectly:

1. Don’t Overcook the Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes cook fairly quickly, so keep an eye on them. You want them tender but not mushy.
2. Use an Immersion Blender for a Creamier Texture: If you prefer a super creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup. If you like a chunkier texture, feel free to skip this step.
3. Adjust the Spices: Feel free to tweak the spices based on your preferences. If you love heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
4. Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob adds an extra burst of sweetness, but frozen corn works just fine too.
5. Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brings brightness to the chowder and elevates the flavors.

Recipe Variations

While this sweet potato chowder is delicious as is, here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Vegan Option: Keep the recipe vegan by using vegetable broth and coconut milk. If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can swap it for almond milk or cashew cream for a creamy base.
• Gluten-Free: This chowder is naturally gluten-free, so it’s perfect if you’re avoiding gluten. Just be sure to pair it with gluten-free bread if you’re serving it on the side.
• Add Protein: If you want to make this a more filling meal, try adding cooked chicken or turkey bacon bits for extra flavor.

Freezing and Storing Sweet Potato Chowder

If you find yourself with leftovers (or want to meal prep), this chowder freezes beautifully! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop and deepen as it sits.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a pot over low heat until warmed through.
• Reheating: If the chowder thickens too much after being stored, simply add a splash of broth or coconut milk to thin it out before reheating.

FAQ Section

Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk?
Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with regular milk or even heavy cream if you prefer a different flavor profile. However, coconut milk adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully. If using dairy, opt for whole milk or cream for the best results.

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chowder tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to thin it out if needed.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Chowder?
Yes, this chowder freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

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Conclusion

This sweet potato chowder is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and just the right balance of sweet and savory. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or preparing it for a special occasion, it’s sure to satisfy every time. The best part? It’s easy to make, and you can tweak it to your preferences.

I hope this recipe becomes as much of a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—I can’t wait for you to experience this delicious bowl of comfort!