A Memory in Every Bowl

The first time I tasted corn chowder was during a crisp October in Mystic, Connecticut. I was pregnant at the time, working next door to a little health food store on the town’s main street. At lunch, I’d grab a cup of their chowder, served in a styrofoam cup, no less, and a slice of bread before heading back to the windsurfing shop where I worked.

The tourists had left for the season, and the town was peaceful. I remember the way the golden leaves blanketed the sidewalks and how the salty sea air mixed with the smell of baked goods from the cafés. We lived just up the road in a tiny house, and after my son was born, I’d push him in a stroller down to work each morning, the cool air waking us both up.

Years later, long after I had left New England, I found myself still craving that corn chowder. It was the balance of sweet and savory, the creaminess, the earthiness of the potatoes and leeks, all simple ingredients that felt like home. Now, it’s a soup I make regularly in cooler months, one that never fails to bring comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Corn Chowder

This chowder is:

• Quick to prepare, ready in under an hour

• Naturally vegetarian (and can be made vegan)

• Creamy without being overly heavy

• A perfect use for late-summer or frozen corn

• Easily customizable with herbs or green chiles for a kick

Variations and Add-Ons

• Add Heat: Stir in ¼ to ½ cup diced roasted poblano or Hatch chiles for a Southwestern twist.

• Make It Vegan: Use olive oil and a plant-based milk such as oat or cashew.

• Add Protein: A handful of shredded rotisserie chicken or crisp tempeh cubes works well.

Health Benefits of Corn Chowder

• Leeks are rich in prebiotic fiber and support digestive health.

• Potatoes are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and provide lasting energy.

• Corn adds natural sweetness and antioxidants like lutein for eye health.

• Garlic supports immune function and adds flavor without needing excess salt or fat.

• Herbs and spices offer anti-inflammatory properties and a flavor boost without added calories.

This creamy corn chowder is more than just a cozy meal—it’s a recipe rooted in memory and simplicity. Whether you serve it on a snowy day or a breezy fall afternoon, it’s sure to bring comfort and warmth to your table.