Spam & Corn Chowder

Here is proof that humble pantry staples can make a genuinely comforting soups. Salty, savory Spam, sweet creamed corn, and tender potatoes simmer together into a thick, creamy chowder, the kind of frugal, filling one-pot meal that gets you through a busy week.

The creamed corn pulls double duty here, adding both flavor and a built-in creaminess that thickens the chowder without any extra work. Diced potatoes do their part too, releasing starch as they soften to give the soup body.

A couple of small moves keep it smooth. Cut the potatoes small and even so they cook through quickly, and stir frequently, since creamed corn and dairy love to catch and scorch on the bottom of the pot. For extra depth, brown the diced Spam in the pot first before adding everything else. Keep it at a gentle simmer rather than a hard boil so the soup stays creamy and rich.

Kitchen Tips

• Cut the potatoes small and even so they cook through quickly and their starch thickens the chowder.
• Stir frequently. Creamed corn and dairy scorch easily on the bottom of the pot.
• Brown the diced Spam first for extra savory, caramelized flavor before adding the rest.

Variations

• Add diced onion, celery, or bell pepper for more vegetables and flavor.
• Stir in shredded cheddar at the end for a cheesy chowder.
• Use turkey Spam or diced ham in place of regular Spam.