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Creamy Sweet Potato Chowder Recipe with Bacon & Kale

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A comforting and flavorful chowder featuring sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh kale in a creamy, rich broth. Perfect for cozy nights or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy
  • 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley, green onions, shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot and discard the rest.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
  5. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and a pinch of nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  6. Once the sweet potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the chowder until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer half the mixture to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
  7. Stir in the chopped kale and let it cook for 5 minutes, or until wilted and tender.
  8. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the chowder simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
  9. Top with the crispy bacon and optional garnishes like parsley, green onions, or shredded cheese.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy sweet potato chowder!

Notes

[‘Don’t skip the roux for a smooth texture.’, ‘Pureeing part of the sweet potatoes creates a velvety base.’, ‘Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.’, ‘Use quality smoked bacon for enhanced flavor.’, ‘Kale should only be cooked until tender and vibrant green.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato chowder, bacon, kale, creamy soup, comfort food, easy dinner, one-pot meal