Creamy Corn & Poblano Chowder Recipe

Perfect for wintry days, this hearty soup with just the right amount of spice is equal parts warming and transportive - giving you a taste of authentic Mexico with the traditional flavors and aromas of the creamy corn, poblano peppers and ancho chili-infused oil. This chowder recipe is a favorite featured in the handout for our Culinary Discovery Tour in Costa Maya. ¡Buen provecho!

Creamy Corn & Poblano Chowder Recipe
Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 ounces bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 roasted poblano peppers, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 thyme sprigs
• 1 bay leaf
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 3 cups grilled corn kernels
• 2 cups heavy cream
• Chive, lime and Ancho chili-infused – oil see recipe

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large stockpot over medium heat add the bacon and cook until the fat is rendered, and the bacon is crisp, about 8 to 10 minutes.
2. Transfer onto paper towels to drain.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the butter, onion, peppers, celery, thyme, and bay leaf. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Slowly stir in the stock. Add the mashed potatoes and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.
5. Add the cream and grilled corn and cook until warmed through, about 5 minutes. Discard the thyme and bay leaf.
6. Stir in the lime juice and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Chive, Lime & Ancho Chili-Infused Oil
Makes ½ cup

INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 chive stems chives
• Peel of 1 lime (skin only)
• 1 dried ancho chili

DIRECTIONS

1. In a sterilized glass jar, combine the oil, chive stems, lime peel and dried anchos and cover tightly to infuse (unrefrigerated) for 24 hours.
2. Strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer into a glass container with a pour spout. Discard the aromatics. Oil will store for up to 3 weeks.
3. Drizzle generously on soup.

Explore more Oceania Cruises recipes here. We look forward to seeing you in The Culinary Center soon!