Corn Chowder With Charred Poblano Peppers and Smokey Capicola

 

When Corn on the Cob is in Season you have to take advantage of the time! How about a hearty bowl of Roasted Corn Chowder. This most delicious sweet & smokey flavour fulfills all the taste buds needs. This is some great soul food! I loved the charring technique listed below. I think this could be used for many other recipe ideas Roasting the Cobs in the oven also adds a roasted element to the soup. Serve this chowder with a baguette and asiago cheese! Yummy

5 Cobs of Corn

1 tbsp. Butter 2 tbsp. olive Oil 1 Leek, Chopped 3 Red Potatoes 1 Poblano Pepper, charred 3 Garlic, charred 1 Red Pepper, Chopped 4 Slices of Capicola (or bacon) 4 cups chicken or veggie stock 1 cup cream half and half or milk 1 tbsp. Fresh Thyme 1 tbsp. Old Bay Seasoning 1 tbsp. Smoked Paprika 1 tsp. Dijon Mustard 2 tsp. Maple Syrup Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes 1 Bay Leaf Salt & Pepper 1 tbsp. Each of Cornstarch and water mixed

Directions:

Roasting Corn Instructions: Preheat oven to 400°. Place the corn on a baking sheet. Add oil salt and pepper. Place in the oven for a half hour, turning occasionally. Let cool and slice the corn off the cob into a bowl. Set aside.

Dry Roasting Instructions: In a cast iron skillet heat up the pan. Throw the Poblano and garlic in the pan. Roast for approximately 10-15 min. Turning frequently charring all the sides. Remove from the heat and let cool while preparing the soup.

For the Soup: In a heavy pot (creuset) over medium heat, add oil and Capicola. Saute for 3-4 minutes. Remove the Capicola from the pot and set aside. Add in the leeks, red pepper, celery and butter. Saute for 4 minutes. Add in the potatoes, corn, pablano peppers, garlic, fresh thyme and spices. Stir and cook for approximately 4 minutes. Add in the chicken stock, mustard, Maple syrup, and Bay leaf. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add in the cream or milk. Simmer for another 15 minutes. Optional: To thicken, add in the cornstarch/water mix.

Enjoy with a crusty baguette and sliced asiago cheese