Name: Potato and Sausage Chowder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 400g sausages (any flavor); 1 onion (chopped); 2 stalks celery (sliced); 2 carrots (sliced); 2 cloves garlic; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 liter chicken or vegetable stock; 2 bay leaves; 100g wild rice; 3 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed); 375ml single cream or half-and-half; Salt to taste

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Potato and Sausage Chowder is a comforting and hearty dish that replaces traditional seafood with flavorful sausage. This chowder is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or a cozy lunch, bringing warmth with every spoonful. The creamy texture combined with tender potatoes makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting Flavor: The combination of sausage and potatoes creates a rich, satisfying taste.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making this chowder is a breeze.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch or dinner, it can be served on its own or with crusty bread.
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves six, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein, it’s a wholesome meal option.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Potato and Sausage Chowder efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Soup pot
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Soup pot: A good-quality pot ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Swap out the traditional seafood for sausage and sink into a steaming bowl of hot creamy potato chowder.

Main Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
400g (6) sausages (any flavour)
1 onion (chopped)
2 stalks celery (sliced)
2 carrots (sliced)
2 cloves garlic
1/2 tsp dried thyme
3 tbsp plain/all-purpose flour
1 litre/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
2 bay leaves
100g/1/2 cup wild rice
3 potatoes (medium, peeled and cut into chunks)
375ml/1 1/2 cups single/light cream or half-and-half
salt to taste

How to Make Potato and Sausage Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium heat.
Remove the sausage from its casing and add it to the pot.
Break up the sausage using a spatula and fry until golden brown. Once cooked through, remove it from the pot onto a separate plate. If your sausage is fatty, you can drain excess fat but leave about 2 tablespoons behind.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, sliced celery, and carrots.
Cook over low heat for about 10 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and thyme; cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring to combine until it forms a paste. Cook this for another couple of minutes before bringing the sausage back into the mix.

Step 3: Simmer the Chowder

Pour in a small amount of chicken stock while stirring to combine with the roux.
Gradually add the remaining stock along with bay leaves and wild rice.
Bring everything to a simmer; cook on low to medium heat for 30 minutes.
Add cubed potatoes next; continue cooking for another 15 minutes until both wild rice and potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Final Touches

Stir in the cream gently; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Allow the chowder to warm through before removing it from heat.
Serve hot with chopped fresh parsley as garnish.

Enjoy your delicious Potato and Sausage Chowder!

How to Serve Potato and Sausage Chowder

Serving your Potato and Sausage Chowder can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to make your chowder a hit at any gathering.

With Fresh Garnishes

Chopped Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Crumbled Bacon – For an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Shredded Cheese – Cheddar or mozzarella can enhance the creamy texture.

Accompanied by Bread

Crusty Bread Rolls – Perfect for dipping into the chowder.
Garlic Bread – Adds a savory touch that complements the dish.
Biscuits – Flaky biscuits can soak up the rich flavors beautifully.

Served in Creative Ways

In a Bread Bowl – A fun way to serve chowder, making cleanup easy!
As a Side Dish – Pair with grilled meats or salads for a complete meal.

How to Perfect Potato and Sausage Chowder

To achieve the best results with your chowder, consider these simple tips. They will help enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

Use Quality Sausage – Choose sausages with natural spices for richer flavor.
Cook Vegetables Slowly – Sautéing vegetables over low heat brings out their natural sweetness.
Adjust Thickness – If too thick, add more stock; if too thin, let simmer longer to reduce.
Add Cream Last – Pouring in cream at the end ensures it doesn’t curdle during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Potato and Sausage Chowder

While your chowder is satisfying on its own, pairing it with side dishes can make it even better. Here are some great options to consider.

Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens provides a fresh contrast.
Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a tangy flavor.
Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with savory chowder.
Roasted Vegetables – Caramelized veggies bring depth to your meal.
Mashed Potatoes – For those who love potatoes, this classic side is comforting.
Pickles or Relish – The acidity cuts through the richness of the chowder nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Potato and Sausage Chowder can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Boldly ignore ingredient proportions: Using incorrect amounts of ingredients can alter the chowder’s texture and flavor. Always measure accurately for the best results.
Boldly skip sautéing vegetables: Failing to properly sauté your onions, celery, and carrots can result in a bland chowder. Take the time to cook them until they’re soft and aromatic; this builds essential flavor.
Boldly rush the cooking process: Cooking the chowder too quickly can lead to undercooked potatoes and rice. Allow ample time for simmering to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Boldly overlook seasoning adjustments: Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning before serving can leave your chowder lacking in flavor. Always sample and season as needed for a balanced dish.
Boldly forget about garnishing: Skipping fresh herbs or toppings makes your chowder less visually appealing. Adding parsley or chives not only enhances the look but also adds freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Potato and Sausage Chowder in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Potato and Sausage Chowder

Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Potato and Sausage Chowder

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Potato and Sausage Chowder.

Can I use different types of sausage in Potato and Sausage Chowder?

Yes, you can use any flavor of sausage you prefer. Italian sausage or smoked sausage adds unique flavors to the chowder.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes retain their shape well during cooking, making them ideal for chowder.

Can I make Potato and Sausage Chowder ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chowder tastes even better after resting as the flavors meld together. Just reheat before serving.

Is there a vegetarian option for this chowder?

You can substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a hearty vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Potato and Sausage Chowder is a delightful meal that warms the soul. Its creamy texture combined with savory sausage makes it perfect for any time of year. Feel free to customize your chowder by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste!