Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Soy Chorizo Corn Chowder

My niece posted a conventional Chorizo Corn Chowder recipe on her Facebook page, and I knew this would make a truly great vegan offering since I could use the vegan (and soy-based) Soyrizo product. I was right...this is really good. (Thank you Anne!) I've tweaked her recipe a little for what I had on hand. I've nearly doubled the recipe since you will not be able to stop eating it and it's perfect for one package of the Soyrizo.

1-2 Tbs olive oil (or water for lower fat)
1 red pepper (I didn't use a pepper, but 1/4 tsp chili powder)
1-2 onions chopped
Salt and pepper

2 bags frozen corn (or equal amounts fresh)

6-8 cups veggie stock
1 package Soyrizo (vegan soy chorizo)
3-4 potatoes, cubed

1 cup milk alternative

Optional toppings:
Chopped Cilantro
Vegan margarine
Tortilla Chips
Vegan sour cream

  • Saute onion and red pepper (if using) with salt, pepper and olive oil. Add veggie stock, one bag of the corn, Soyrizo and potatoes. Simmer for 20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  • Scoop out about half the potatoes with a slotted spoon. Set aside.
  • Use an immersion blender or transfer carefully to a blender and blend to desired chunkiness.
  • Add the last bag of corn, the potatoes you took out and the milk. 
  • Simmer all until warm, but do not boil.
  • Top with desired toppings or set several out for your guests to choose. This would also be great with a nice crusty bread or a corn bread.

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
(Sorry for being inexact--I never really measure!)


1/4 to 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup to 1 cup milk alternative
1/2- 1 fresh orange
1/2 cup frozen mango
1/4- 1/2 tsp Pumpkin Pie spice (or combo of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)
1 Tbs agave nectar (a couple of dates would work, too)

1/2 tsp vanilla
Blend and enjoy! 

Grate a little nutmeg on top if you like. 
Fancy version: vegan whipped cream on top!

You can make this with almost any mixture of fruits. I happened to have mango on hand and thought the orange would really brighten it. I've also made it with just pumpkin and milk.