Southern Sweet Corn & Heirloom Tomato Chowder

Southern summer tables often turn sweet corn and ripe tomatoes into something spoonable and comforting. This chowder starts with a gentle butter-and-flour base, then folds in fresh kernels, heirloom tomatoes, and a touch of smoked paprika.

Serves 4 · 15 min prep · 25 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 285 cal
• 8g protein
• 42g carbs
• 11g fat

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Ingredients

• 3 cups fresh sweet corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
• 2 cups heirloom tomatoes, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. 1Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large Dutch oven or heavy soup pot over medium heat until the butter melts and foams slightly.
2. 2Add the diced onion and celery; cook, stirring often, until the onion turns translucent and the celery softens, about 5 to 6 minutes.
3. 3Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme; cook just until fragrant, about 45 seconds, taking care not to brown the garlic.
4. 4Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 full minute to cook out the raw flour taste and form a light roux.
5. 5Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking to prevent lumps, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. 6Add the fresh corn kernels and diced heirloom tomatoes; season with salt and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is tender and the tomatoes begin to break down into the broth.
7. 7Reduce heat to low and stir in the whole milk. Warm through for 3 to 4 minutes without boiling so the chowder stays creamy and does not curdle.
8. 8Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, top with chopped fresh basil, and serve hot. For meal-prep, cool completely before portioning into airtight containers.