Fresh Corn Chowder

Preparation

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add bacon, onion, bell pepper and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened and beginning to brown, 7 to 8 minutes. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring, for 1 minute more. Add broth and bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 15 minutes.
2. Add corn kernels, potatoes, milk and salt to the pan. Return to a simmer and cook, uncovered, until the vegetables are tender, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with pepper. Serve garnished with parsley.

Tips & Notes

• Tip: To remove corn kernels from the cob: Stand an uncooked ear of corn on its stem end in a shallow bowl and slice the kernels off with a sharp, thin-bladed knife. This technique produces whole kernels that are good for adding to salads and salsas. If you want to use the corn kernels for soups, fritters or puddings, you can add another step to the process. After cutting the kernels off, reverse the knife and, using the dull side, press it down the length of the ear to push out the rest of the corn and its milk.

Nutrition