Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Recipe for Comfort

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, your premier culinary resource dedicated to bringing you flavorful, wholesome, and easy-to-make dishes. Today, we delve into a recipe that embodies comfort, richness, and a touch of smoky sweetness—our Toasted Corn Soup. This dish is an ode to the natural sweetness of fresh corn, complemented by aromatic vegetables and a hint of fresh basil, creating a symphony of flavors that are both satisfying and nourishing. The process of toasting the corn kernels adds a subtle smoky depth, elevating this simple soup into a gourmet experience.

Perfect for chilly evenings, casual gatherings, or as a nourishing starter, this soup combines rustic charm with sophisticated flavor profiles. Its quick preparation time and straightforward methodology make it an ideal choice for both busy weekdays and leisurely weekends. The dish seamlessly fits into vegetarian diets, offering a hearty, protein-rich option that can be enjoyed by all. As you indulge in this warm bowl, you’ll appreciate the layered flavors, fresh ingredients, and the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• 4-quart (16-cup) heavy-bottomed saucepan or stockpot
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Ladle for serving
• Cooling rack or plate (for corn to cool)
• Optional: immersion blender or regular blender for optional creaminess

Tags

• Vegetable
• Under 60 Minutes
• Stove Top
• Easy
• Vegetarian
• Comfort Food
• Soup
• Healthy
• Fresh Corn
• Herb-Based

Serving Size

Serves approximately 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes. This recipe yields about 4 generous bowls of soup, perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.

Difficulty Level

Easy. This recipe is suitable for cooks of all skill levels, requiring only basic chopping, sautéing, and boiling techniques. The toasting process adds a layer of flavor but is straightforward and quick.

Allergen Information

This dish is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, always verify the freshness and quality of ingredients, especially if using pre-packaged broth or herbs, to prevent cross-contamination. If you have specific allergies, ensure the broth used is suitable for your dietary needs.

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian, vegan (if vegetable broth is used), dairy-free, nut-free. This soup aligns with plant-based diets and can be adapted to vegan preferences by omitting or substituting certain ingredients.

Course

Appetizer, Main Course (vegetarian), Side Dish

Cuisine

American, Comfort Food, Vegetarian

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and toast the corn

Begin by heating a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the ears of corn directly onto the dry skillet surface. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes, then turn the ears to toast all sides evenly. The goal is to develop a light char and smoky aroma, which should take approximately 8-10 minutes in total. Turning frequently ensures even toasting and prevents burning.

As the corn kernels toast, you’ll notice a fragrant, slightly smoky aroma filling your kitchen, signaling that the flavor development is underway. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the final soup, imparting a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the corn.

Step 2: Cooling and kernel removal

Once toasted, remove the ears from the skillet and let them cool for a few minutes on a cooling rack or plate. When cool enough to handle, carefully cut the kernels off the cobs using a sharp chef’s knife. Hold the cob upright on your cutting board, and slice downward, following the curve of the cob to extract the kernels cleanly. Place the kernels in a bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the vegetable base

While the corn cools, peel and chop the carrots into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. Dice the onion finely, ensuring small pieces that will soften quickly and blend well into the broth. Mince the garlic cloves finely to maximize aroma and flavor release during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the vegetables

In your 4-quart saucepan, combine the vegetable broth, chopped carrots, diced onion, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and infuse the broth with their flavors.

Step 5: Incorporate the toasted corn

After the vegetables have simmered, add the toasted corn kernels to the broth. Stir gently to distribute the kernels evenly. Continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the corn to become tender and flavorful.

Step 6: Final assembly and garnish

Once the corn has softened, ladle the hot soup into bowls or mugs. Garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly shredded basil and freshly cracked black pepper. For an extra touch, you can drizzle a small amount of olive oil or add a dollop of plant-based cream for creaminess, if desired.

Preparation Tips

• Toasting Corn: For an authentic smoky flavor, toast the corn directly on a dry skillet without oil. If you prefer a less smoky profile, skip toasting or toast the corn in a dry oven or grill for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, celery, or zucchini for added texture and flavor complexity.
• Broth Choices: Use homemade vegetable broth for the best flavor, or opt for high-quality store-bought options. For richer flavor, vegetable broth with roasted garlic or herbs can be used.
• Blending Options: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a traditional blender. Return to the pot and stir well before serving.

Nutritional Information

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Tips and Tricks

• Maximize Flavor: Toast the corn until it develops a light char for a smoky depth that enhances the sweetness of the corn.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil for vibrant flavor; dry basil can be substituted but will not provide the same aromatic intensity.
• Texture Variation: For a chunkier soup, leave some corn kernels whole; for a smoother texture, blend part of the soup after cooking.
• Seasoning Adjustment: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a smoky or spicy twist.

Add-Ons

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess and tang.
• Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley as alternative herbs.
• Drop of heavy cream or coconut cream for a richer, creamier soup.
• Toasted bread croutons or tortilla strips for added crunch.

Side Dishes

• Crusty artisan bread or garlic bread.
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette.
• Grilled vegetable skewers for a hearty accompaniment.
• Spiced roasted chickpeas for added protein and crunch.

Improvements

For an even richer flavor profile, consider roasting the carrots and onions before adding to the broth. This caramelizes the vegetables, adding depth and sweetness. Additionally, incorporating a splash of smoked paprika during the sautéing phase can boost smoky notes. Experimenting with different herbs like thyme or oregano can also diversify the flavor palette. For a more decadent version, swirl in a little coconut milk or cashew cream just before serving.

Save and Store

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens upon storage, add a splash of warm broth or water to restore the desired consistency.

FAQ

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure any added toppings or garnishes are plant-based. Skip dairy-based cream or cheese, or substitute with plant-based alternatives.

Can I use frozen corn?

While fresh corn provides the best flavor and texture, frozen corn can be used. Thaw and drain excess water before adding to the soup. Keep in mind that frozen corn may not develop the same smoky flavor as toasted fresh corn, but it still results in a delicious soup.

How can I make this soup creamier?

Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a standard blender, then stir back into the pot. Alternatively, swirl in coconut cream or plant-based heavy cream for added richness.

Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes. This recipe contains no gluten ingredients. Just ensure the broth used is gluten-free if necessary.

Conclusion

In embracing the natural sweetness of corn and elevating it with smoky toasted kernels, this Toasted Corn Soup from lovewithrecipes.com offers a delightful combination of rustic comfort and refined flavor. The simple ingredients, quick preparation, and versatility make it a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy, satisfying dishes. Whether enjoyed as a comforting starter or a main vegetarian course, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Remember to experiment with herbs and add-ons to personalize the flavor, and enjoy the warmth and wholesome goodness in every spoonful.

References

Sources include traditional American cooking techniques, and flavor development insights from culinary experts like Harold McGee’s “On Food and Cooking”. For additional inspiration, see Serious Eats and Epicurious.