When the chill of winter settles in, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of hearty chowder. This Keto Parmesan Chowder is a creamy, savory delight that’s perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle. Packed with nutritious ingredients and a flavorful punch of Parmesan cheese, this recipe offers a comforting meal option without compromising your dietary goals.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)
Equipments
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the following equipment ready:
- Large saucepan or pot
- Blender or immersion blender
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
How to Make Keto Parmesan Chowder Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Saute the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This combination forms the aromatic base of your chowder, setting the stage for the deep flavors to unfold.
Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower
Add the cauliflower florets to the saucepan, stirring them with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to absorb the flavors. This step is essential for developing a rich, savory undertone that will carry through the dish.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is perfectly tender. Simmering melds the flavors beautifully, ensuring a harmonious blend in every spoonful.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until it achieves a smooth, creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender if necessary. Blending creates the silken texture that makes this chowder delightfully rich.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Return the pot to low heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow these ingredients to melt and blend into the soup, adding a delectable creaminess and tangy flavor. Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the chowder into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the luxurious taste of this Keto Parmesan Chowder.
How to Serve Keto Parmesan Chowder
Pair this chowder with a light, leafy salad to keep the meal low-carb and refresh your palate. You can also enjoy it on its own as a satisfying main dish. For a festive touch, add crunchy bacon bits or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To deepen the flavor even further, consider roasting the cauliflower florets before adding them to the chowder. This brings out a nuttier profile in your soup. For those with additional dietary concerns, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a non-dairy version. Adjust the soup’s consistency by altering the amount of broth based on your preference for a thicker or lighter chowder.
Power Your Meal: High-Protein Version of Keto Chowder
If you want to increase the protein content, consider adding diced, cooked chicken or turkey breast pieces to your chowder. Simply stir them in during the blending stage so they absorb the creamy, cheesy deliciousness of the soup. Not only will this enhance the hunger-quenching nature of your meal, but it will also provide an excellent boost of protein.
Alternatively, for seafood lovers, adding cooked shrimp or crab can bring an exquisite twist, imparting a luxurious texture and flavor profile to this already indulgent dish.
Low-Carb Delight: Customizing the Recipe for Fewer Carbs
Worried about carbs? Focus on using low-carb vegetables like spinach or zucchini in addition to cauliflower. These options keep the dish light yet satisfying. Reducing the cream and cheese slightly also helps lower the carb content while still maintaining the dish’s rich flavor profile.
For those who are stricter with their carb intake, substituting chicken broth with bone broth can offer extra nutrients and a deeper flavor without adding carbs.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For extended storage, freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat to ensure it stays creamy and luscious.
FAQs
- Can I freeze keto chowder? Yes, you can freeze keto chowder for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers.
- Is keto chowder suitable for weight loss? Indeed, keto chowder is low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it a suitable option for weight loss within a ketogenic diet framework.
- Can I use almond milk instead of heavy cream? While almond milk can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, it may result in a thinner consistency. Adjust the recipe according to your taste.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! This Keto Parmesan Chowder is inherently gluten-free, as it contains no flour or wheat-based ingredients.
- What can I serve with keto chowder? Keto chowder pairs well with a variety of low-carb salads or a handful of roasted nuts for a side. It can also serve as a delightful starter to a warm meal.
- Can I make this chowder spicier? Certainly, adding chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a bit more heat to your chowder.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Parmesan Chowder
The Keto Parmesan Chowder is a testament to how a low-carb diet can still deliver rich and hearty meals. With its warming, creamy texture and savory flavor boasting cheesy goodness, this chowder is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. We encourage you to share this recipe with friends and leave your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking!