Creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder

As the weather turns cooler, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of chowder to warm you up. Shrimp and corn chowder is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavor of shrimp. This creamy soup is easy to prepare and is perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• 3 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add Vegetables: Add the corn and diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.

4. Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. 

   Blend Half the Soup (Optional): For a creamier texture, remove half of the soup and blend it until smooth using an immersion blender or a countertop blender. Return the blended soup to the pot.

6. Add Cream and Spice: Stir in the heavy cream and smoked paprika. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

7. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the chowder and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and crumbled bacon, if using. Serve hot.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

Shrimp and corn chowder is not only delicious but also nutritious. The shrimp provide a good source of protein and essential nutrients like iodine and selenium, while corn offers dietary fiber and antioxidants. The potatoes and cream contribute to the chowder’s richness, but also add calories, so consider portion size if you’re watching your intake.

To complement this hearty chowder, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. For additional texture and flavor, a crusty baguette or warm cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment.

As for drinks, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the chowder. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a slice of lime for a refreshing companion to your meal.

This comforting shrimp and corn chowder is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation, offering both warmth and flavor with every bite.