Inspired by Dorie Greenspan's Fresh Off The Cob Corn Chowder, this version is creamy, chunky and delicious. My rendition is gluten free and flavored with bacon and (optional) ham hocks. Use corn off the cob and the corn cobs to give this rich soup even more sweetness and depth.
In a large soup pot or Dutch Oven over medium high heat add the bacon and cook, stirring occasionally until crisp and the fat has been rendered. Transfer the bacon to a dish lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
SAUTÉ THE VEGETABLES:
Add the corn, celery, onion, fennel, garlic and half of the diced potatoes to the pot with bacon fat. Sauté for 3-4 minutes or until tender and the onions and celery are slightly translucent.
SIMMER THE CORN BROTH:
Tie the rosemary and thyme with a kitchen string into a small bundle and add to the pot. Add the bay leaf, water, ham hocks (if using) and corn cobs (if using). Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer (with the lid tightly secured) for 20 minutes.
Use a pair of tongs to fish out the ham hocks, corn cobs, bay leaf and bundle of herbs. Discard.
FINISHING THE CORN CHOWDER:
Ladle 4 cups of broth and vegetables from the soup to a blender. Blend until very smooth and creamy. Transfer back to the dutch oven and stir to combine.
Add the remaining diced potatoes, cream and white wine. Return the pot to a simmer over medium heat with the lid tightly secured. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
TASTE AND GARNISH:
Taste the soup for seasonings and adjust with salt, pepper (or even a teaspoon of sugar to bring out the sweetness).
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved bacon and your favorite garnishes.