Healthy Corn and Potato Chowder with Kale

This lighter version of the chowder is just as satisfying, using pureed potatoes for creaminess, along with fresh ingredients to keep it wholesome and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup kale, chopped (stems removed)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Optional: 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken (if you want added protein)
• Optional: 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk) for extra creaminess

Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables: Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes. Chop the onion and garlic, and prepare the corn and kale.

2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for approximately 5 minutes until it's translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes, corn, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Pour in the broth, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender.

4. Blend for Creaminess: Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the chowder until smooth. This will create a creamy texture without the need for cream. Alternatively, you can transfer half of the chowder to a blender, puree it, and then return it to the pot.

5. Incorporate Kale and Optional Milk: Stir in the chopped kale and, if using, the unsweetened almond milk for added creaminess. If you're adding ground turkey or chicken for protein, cook it in a separate pan and fold it in at this point. Allow everything to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the kale is tender.

6. Season to Taste: Taste your chowder, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chunky chowder into bowls, and maybe drizzle a little olive oil on top for richness or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish.

Flavor Profile

This healthy chowder balances the sweetness of the corn with the earthy notes of diced potatoes and vibrant, slightly bitter kale. The blending of potatoes gives it a smooth, creamy texture without heavy cream, while the thyme adds a delightful herbal aroma.