Vegetarian Chowder Recipe Easy and Delicious to Make

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chowder to brighten up a chilly day, and the best part is you don’t need meat to make it delicious! This vegetarian chowder recipe is packed with fresh vegetables, creamy textures, and hearty flavors that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your menu, this chowder is a perfect choice. It’s simple to make, uses wholesome ingredients, and offers a cozy, filling meal for lunch or dinner.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step of making this delightful chowder, share tips for customization, and provide serving ideas to elevate your dining experience. Ready to dive into a pot of creamy, veggie-rich goodness?

Let’s get started and bring some warmth to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian chowder is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile — you can swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or add extra herbs and spices to suit your tastes.

The chowder’s creamy base is made without heavy cream, relying instead on plant-based milk and a touch of flour to achieve that luscious texture without the heaviness. Plus, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Another great aspect is its simplicity. With just a handful of common ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip this up in under an hour.

It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers on busy days. If you love recipes that combine comfort food vibes with wholesome nutrition, this vegetarian chowder will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes (about 1 lb), peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Optional: blender or immersion blender

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables. Peel and dice the potatoes and carrots, chop the onion, celery, bell peppers, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth.
2. Heat the olive oil. Place your pot over medium heat and warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add garlic, celery, and carrots. Stir in the garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
4. Incorporate the potatoes and bell peppers. Add the diced potatoes and bell peppers to the pot. Stir to combine all the vegetables evenly.
5. Sprinkle the flour. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir well. This will help thicken the chowder as it cooks. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth. Gradually add the vegetable broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
7. Add seasonings and corn. Stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the corn kernels and let the chowder simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
8. Add the plant-based milk. Pour in the plant-based milk and stir well. Let the chowder heat through for another 5 minutes without boiling.
9. Optional: Blend for creaminess. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree half of the chowder in the pot. Alternatively, transfer half to a blender, puree, then return to the pot and stir.
10. Adjust seasoning and serve. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For an extra boost of flavor, sauté a diced leek along with the onion or add a splash of white wine before adding the broth.

• Make it vegan creamy: Use coconut milk instead of plant-based milk for a rich, slightly sweet twist.
• Boost protein: Add cooked white beans or chickpeas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Seasonal swaps: Try adding zucchini, kale, or sweet potatoes in place of some vegetables depending on what’s in season.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce for a mild kick.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chowder shines when served with some crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping. You might also enjoy it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

For a heartier lunch or dinner, pair the chowder with a light sandwich, such as a grilled cheese or a roasted vegetable wrap. If you want to keep the meal lighter, a simple side of steamed greens or roasted Brussels sprouts complements the creamy chowder beautifully.

Looking for more tasty vegetarian recipes to pair with this chowder? Check out these favorites:

• Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals
• Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
• Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore

Conclusion

This vegetarian chowder is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection, especially when you want something that’s both nourishing and comforting. It’s a perfect example of how simple, fresh ingredients can come together to create a rich and satisfying dish without relying on meat or dairy.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this chowder is sure to please. It’s easy to customize, wholesome, and delicious — qualities every home cook appreciates.

Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own. For more plant-based inspiration, be sure to explore our other recipes linked above and keep enjoying the wonderful world of vegetarian cooking!

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