Sweet Potato Chowder is a creamy, hearty soup made with tender sweet potatoes, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. Often combined with a rich broth and milk, this dish is both comforting and nourishing. The blend of spices like cumin and paprika adds warmth, while the sweet potatoes give it a subtle sweetness and velvety texture.
The preparation of Sweet Potato Chowder typically takes about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25-30 minutes. This makes it an ideal recipe for a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The soup can be easily adapted for different preferences, whether you prefer a chunky texture or a smooth, creamy finish.
The combination of sweet potatoes, spices, and broth creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and nourishing. A bowl of this chowder provides a satisfying balance of savory and sweet, making it a go-to recipe for cold weather. It can easily be customized with extra vegetables or protein for a more filling meal.
Why You’ll Love Sweet Potato Chowder
- Deliciously Hearty: Sweet potato chowder is packed with rich flavors, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. Its creamy texture and warmth make it a comforting meal any day.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, this chowder offers a healthy yet satisfying option for your meals. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious choice.
- Quick & Easy: You can prepare this dish in no time! With simple ingredients and minimal effort, sweet potato chowder is a fast, stress-free recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredient Notes for Sweet Potato Chowder
- Sweet Potatoes: The star of the chowder, sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked. They are high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy base for this dish.
- Onion: Onions bring a savory flavor and depth to the chowder. They become sweet and tender when sautéed, complementing the sweetness of the potatoes perfectly.
- Garlic: Garlic provides a rich, aromatic flavor. Its mild heat enhances the overall taste, balancing the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Celery Stalks: Celery adds a fresh, crisp texture and subtle earthy flavor to the chowder. It complements the creaminess of the sweet potatoes, providing a satisfying crunch.
- Carrot: Carrots add color, sweetness, and a slight crunch to the chowder. Their mild flavor pairs well with the other vegetables, contributing to the overall harmony of the dish.
- Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth: The base of the chowder, the broth provides a savory liquid that helps cook the vegetables and gives the soup its rich, full flavor. Choose vegetable broth for a vegan version, or chicken broth for added depth.
- Milk: Milk adds creaminess and helps create a smooth texture. It balances the richness of the potatoes, resulting in a velvety, comforting chowder.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables. It provides a light, fruity flavor and healthy fats, which make the chowder more satisfying.
- Dried Thyme: Thyme adds an earthy, herbal note to the chowder. It pairs wonderfully with the sweet potatoes and other savory ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Ground Cumin: Cumin offers a warm, slightly smoky flavor. It adds depth and complexity to the chowder, balancing the sweetness of the potatoes and the other ingredients.
- Paprika: Paprika provides a mild, smoky kick. It enhances the color and flavor of the chowder, giving it a little heat without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the vegetables and spices. Adjust them to taste for a perfectly seasoned chowder.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch to Sweet Potato Chowder
When making sweet potato chowder, choose fresh, firm sweet potatoes. This ensures a creamy texture once they are cooked. Peeling them helps create a smoother base for your soup. Add vegetables like carrots and celery for extra flavor and crunch. Fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, can elevate the taste.
To enhance the chowder’s richness, consider adding coconut milk or heavy cream. Coconut milk gives a slightly sweet, tropical flavor that complements sweet potatoes. If you prefer a lighter chowder, opt for vegetable broth instead of cream for a more savory base.
Spice it up! A pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika can add a nice kick. Adjust the amount to suit your taste. Additionally, garlic and onions sautéed at the start create a delicious aromatic foundation for the soup. Experiment with different spices to find what works best for you.
For a heartier version, add protein-rich beans or cooked chicken. These additions make the dish more filling, perfect for a complete meal. You can also top the chowder with crispy bacon or cheese for added texture and flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Storing & Reheating Sweet Potato Chowder
To store sweet potato chowder, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Proper storage ensures that the chowder retains its flavor and texture for a longer period.
When reheating sweet potato chowder, do so slowly over medium heat. Stir frequently to avoid burning. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir every minute to heat it evenly. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help restore its creamy consistency.
If you plan to store the chowder for a longer period, freezing is an option. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating frozen chowder, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat on the stove or in the microwave.
FAQs About Sweet Potato Chowder
Is sweet potato chowder healthy?
Yes, sweet potato chowder is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from the sweet potatoes and vegetables. It’s a nutritious option when made with fresh ingredients and without too much cream or butter.
How do you make sweet potato chowder?
To make sweet potato chowder, cook diced sweet potatoes with onions, garlic, and broth, then blend some of the soup for a creamy texture. You can add milk, cream, or coconut milk to enhance the flavor and richness.
Can I make sweet potato chowder vegan?
Yes, sweet potato chowder can be easily made vegan by using plant-based milk like coconut or almond milk, and omitting any meat or dairy. This makes it a great option for those following a vegan or plant-based diet.
How long does sweet potato chowder last?
Sweet potato chowder can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Easy Baked Sweet Potato Chowder Recipes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrot to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the sweet potatoes and spices: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, dried thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the broth: Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Blend the chowder (optional): For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the chowder until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and puree it, then return it to the pot.
- Add milk and corn: Once the soup is blended to your desired consistency, stir in the milk (or coconut milk) and corn kernels. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finish with cream: If you prefer a richer chowder, add the heavy cream at the end. Stir well and let the chowder simmer for a few more minutes.
- Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the chowder and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
Notes
