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Classic Vegan Potato Chowder Recipe (Bold And Savory Flavors)

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I advise using a homemade vegetable broth for your Vegan Potato Chowder Recipe. Try adding smoked paprika for extra flavor. You’ll get a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings. On the other hand, research shows that coconut milk adds creaminess at the same time. You must try it!

Why It Works?

  • It uses simple, homemade vegetable broth for rich flavor.
  • Adding smoked paprika creates a bold and savory taste.
  • Blending potatoes adds natural creaminess without dairy.
  • Coconut milk brings extra richness while keeping it vegan.
  • All you need are pantry staples, making it easy to prepare anytime.

Don’t have time to read the full blog post? JUMP TO THE RECIPE HERE!

If you’re struggling to find a comforting, plant-based meal that satisfies your craving for warmth and flavor, this potato vegan chowder recipe is perfect for you. It offers a delightful blend of potatoes, hearty vegetables, and smoked paprika, providing a rich, homemade taste without dairy.

You’ll get a creamy, satisfying texture from blending the potatoes and using coconut milk for added depth. Try adding a touch of smoked paprika for a subtle, smoky flavor. At the same time, this chowder comes together with pantry staples, ensuring convenience.

The universal rule is that simple ingredients can make comforting dishes, and this chowder is no exception. Whip up this easy, cozy bowl and enjoy a delicious meal tonight!

vegan Potato Chowder recipe

What Is Vegan Potato Chowder? 

Potato vegan chowder is a creamy, hearty soup made without animal products. It typically includes potatoes, vegetables like onions and celery, and a plant-based broth. Coconut milk or blended potatoes often provide the creamy texture. Seasonings such as smoked paprika or herbs add flavor. It’s perfect for those seeking a comforting, dairy-free meal.

Fact– Research shows that blending potatoes in vegan chowder gives it a naturally creamy texture. Coconut milk enhances richness while keeping it dairy-free, making it a perfect comfort meal.

vegan Potato Chowder recipe

Recipe Directions 

  • Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
  • Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables soften and onion becomes translucent and starts to brown, about 5 minutes.
  • Sprinkle flour and thyme over vegetables. Stir to coat, cooking for another minute until the flour begins to brown.
  • Add potatoes, vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast. Bring to a simmer.
  • Cook for about 8 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the chowder thickens.
  • Add corn, then season with salt and pepper. Adjust thickness with water or vegetable broth if needed.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Directions 

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variation

  • Spicy Kick: Inject a fiery burst of flavor into your dish by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper, intensifying its heat and tantalizing the taste buds with each bite.
  • Smoky Flavor: Delve into a realm of rich, savory goodness by stirring in smoked paprika or chipotle powder, infusing your creation with layers of deep, smoky undertones that linger on the palate.
  • Herb Infusion: Embark on a journey of freshness and aroma with the addition of vibrant, freshly chopped herbs like dill or parsley, imparting a lively and rejuvenating essence to your culinary masterpiece.

Add-Ons

  • Mushrooms: Enhance the earthy notes of your dish by sautéing mushrooms alongside the vegetables, introducing a delightful twist that adds depth and complexity to each mouthful.
  • White Beans: Elevate both the protein content and texture of your creation by incorporating creamy white beans, infusing it with a hearty richness that satisfies the appetite and delights the senses.
  • Leeks: Opt for a subtly sweet and milder flavor profile by substituting traditional onions with tender leeks, lending a delicate yet distinctive taste to your culinary ensemble.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Toppings

  • Fresh Herbs: Add a final flourish of freshness and color to your dish with a generous sprinkling of vibrant cilantro, chives, or parsley, elevating its visual appeal and tantalizing the taste buds with their aromatic essence.
  • Croutons: Introduce a satisfying textural contrast by incorporating homemade croutons, each crispy bite enhancing the overall enjoyment of your culinary creation with its delightful crunch.
  • Avocado: Indulge in a creamy, luxurious finish by topping your dish with diced avocado, adding a velvety richness that melts in the mouth and leaves a lingering sense of satisfaction.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Vegetable Substitutions

  • Carrots: Substitute carrots with parsnips for a slightly sweeter flavor, or opt for butternut squash to introduce a unique taste and vibrant color.
  • Celery: Replace celery with fennel for a subtle anise flavor, or choose bell peppers for a milder taste and refreshing crunch.
  • Onion: Swap onions with leeks for a delicate sweetness, or use shallots to add a mild onion flavor and nuanced depth.
  • Corn: Try green peas or diced zucchini as alternatives to corn for a different texture and flavor profile.

Quick Tip– To achieve a richer flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar before serving. This will enhance the chowder’s overall taste and balance the creamy richness.

Vegetable Substitutions

Best Side Dishes

  1. Garlic Bread Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread. The toasty, garlicky flavors complement the creamy chowder and provide a delightful crunch.
  2. Simple Green Salad A light salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty chowder.
  3. Roasted Vegetables Roasted root vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts bring extra flavor and a crispy texture that pairs well with the creamy soup.
  4. Avocado Toast Top toast with mashed avocado and a pinch of chili flakes for a creamy, slightly spicy side that enriches the chowder experience.

Best Side Dishes

How To Serve?

Serve potato vegan chowder piping hot in bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Add croutons, avocado slices, or a drizzle of coconut milk for extra flavor and texture. Pair with crusty garlic bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

Quick Tip– For added creaminess without dairy, blend half of the chowder before serving. This enhances the soup’s thickness while keeping plenty of potato chunks and vegetables for hearty texture.

How To Serve

Storage & Make Ahead

Storage

  • Store leftover potato vegan chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to thin if needed.

Make Ahead

  • Prepare the chowder up to 2 days in advance. Refrigerate it without garnishes. When ready to serve, reheat and add toppings like herbs, croutons, or avocado.

Fact– Research shows that blending some of the potatoes in potato vegan chowder gives the soup a creamy texture, while leaving chunks intact creates a satisfying, hearty contrast in every spoonful.

Storage & Make Ahead

Time-Saving Tips

  1. Pre-Chopped Veggies: Use pre-chopped or frozen carrots, celery, and onions to minimize prep time.
  2. Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker: Cook the chowder in an Instant Pot to significantly reduce the overall cooking time.
  3. Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick, ready-made meals on busy days.
Classic Vegan Potato Chowder Recipe For Beginners

Classic Vegan Potato Chowder Recipe For Beginners

Recipe by Julia

Potato vegan chowder is a hearty, plant-based soup brimming with creamy potatoes, vegetables, and savory spices. Coconut milk adds richness, while smoked paprika and nutritional yeast create a bold, comforting flavor perfect for cozy evenings.

Course: Soups
0.0 from 0 votes
Servings

4

servings
Prep Time

10

minutes
Cooking Time

15

minutes
Calories

300

kcal
Rest Time

0

minutes
Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients List 

  • 1 Tbsp 1 Vegan butter or light oil

  • 2 Peeled and Chopped 2 Medium carrots

  • 2 Chopped 2 Celery, ribs

  • 1 Chopped 1 Yellow onion, medium

  • 3 Minced 3 Garlic cloves

  • 1/4 Cup 1/4 All-purpose flour

  • 1 Tsp 1 Dried thyme leaves

  • 3 large (about 1 1/2 lbs), peeled and diced (4 cups chopped) 3 White or Yukon gold potatoes

  • 2 Cups 2 Vegetable broth

  • 2 Cups 2 Plant-based milk (e.g., soy or almond)

  • 3 Tbsp 3 Nutritional yeast

  • 1 Cup 1 Fresh or frozen corn kernels

  • 1 Tsp 1 Salt

  • 1/4 Tsp 1/4 Black pepper

Step-By-Step Directions

  • Heat Oil: In a large soup pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until hot.
  • Sauté Vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent and starts to brown.
    vegan-Potato-Chowder-recipe-04
  • Add Flour and Thyme: Sprinkle the flour and thyme over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat, then continue stirring and cooking for another minute, until the flour begins to brown.
  • Combine Main Ingredients: Add the potatoes, vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
    vegan-Potato-Chowder-recipe-05
  • Cook Potatoes: Let the chowder simmer for about 8 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the soup thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Add Corn and Season: Add the corn to the pot, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If the chowder is too thick, adjust the consistency with a splash of water or vegetable broth.
    vegan-Potato-Chowder-recipe-06
  • Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot chowder into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with your favorite toppings, like fresh herbs or croutons, for extra flavor. Enjoy!

  • Equipment List
  • Large soup pot
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Notes

  • Choosing Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best due to their creamy texture.
  • Thickening Tip: For an extra creamy chowder, blend a portion of the cooked soup, then return it to the pot.
  • Spice Adjustments: Adjust the spices, like thyme or smoked paprika, based on your flavor preference.
  • Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like peas, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Reheating: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of water or broth to restore the desired consistency.

vegan Potato Chowder recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Potato Vegan Chowder Without Flour For A Gluten-Free Option?

Yes, you can substitute flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the chowder while keeping it gluten-free.

What’s A Good Alternative To Coconut Milk In This Chowder?

Cashew cream or oat milk can replace coconut milk for a creamy texture, providing similar richness without the coconut flavor.

How Long Can I Freeze Potato Vegan Chowder?

You can freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.

vegan Potato Chowder recipe

Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead Of Regular Potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes provide a slightly different flavor and sweetness, which works well in vegan chowder recipes.

How Can I Make The Chowder Spicier Without Changing The Flavor Too Much?

Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños will add a subtle heat without overwhelming the flavor of the chowder.

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VIE DE LA VEGAN!

Greetings from the heart of Vie De La Vegan, where each dish we share is a chapter in a larger story of discovery, wellness, and the transformative power of a plant-based diet. My name is Julia, and I am thrilled to be your guide on this delightful culinary adventure.

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