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Chanterelle and Corn Chowder with Basil

Chanterelle and Corn Chowder with Basil

This hearty chowder combines the nutty flavor of chanterelle mushrooms with the sweetness of fresh corn, finished with fresh basil for a vibrant Pacific Northwest taste.


Ingredients (6 servings)

  • 12 oz fresh chanterelle, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms
  • 5 ears fresh sweet corn, shucked
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (about 8 oz), finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt (less if using salted stock)
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 2 tbsp dry sherry
  • 3 cups homemade or canned low-sodium chicken stock (or Golden Vegetable Stock)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh marjoram or oregano
  • 1 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prep the mushrooms
    • Brush off dirt and pine needles.
    • For chanterelles: cut large ones into 1/2-inch dice.
    • For shiitake: remove stems, slice caps into 1/4-inch strips.
    • For oyster mushrooms: tear into strips.
  2. Prep the corn
    • Scrape the pulp from the ears using a knife or corn scraper, keeping kernels and pulp.
  3. Make the soup base
    • Heat olive oil in a large (4-qt) saucepan over medium heat.
    • Add onion and garlic, cook ~8 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
    • Add mushrooms and salt; cook ~5 minutes until moisture evaporates.
    • Add wine and sherry, cook until almost dry.
    • Stir in stock and corn; bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
    • Simmer uncovered 10–15 minutes.
  4. Finish the soup
    • Stir in cream, marjoram, and basil.
    • Simmer again briefly.
    • Season with pepper and more salt if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with crusty bread or alongside a fresh green salad. This chowder pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or an unoaked Chardonnay.