Corn Chowder – The Black Family Reunion Cookbook – Black Foodie Finder

Patti LaBelle’s Creamy Corn Chowder for Family Gatherings

Fresh sweet corn, tender vegetables, and a creamy broth come together in Corn Chowder, a comforting soup contributed by legendary entertainer Patti LaBelle. This hearty recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that’s perfect for cool evenings, family reunions, or whenever you’re craving classic comfort food.

Featured in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this chowder highlights the tradition of making nourishing meals from seasonal ingredients. Fresh corn is paired with smoked turkey for rich flavor, while potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions create a wholesome, satisfying soup finished with cream and fresh parsley.

Ingredients

(Listed exactly as they appear in the cookbook.)

• 8–10 ears of corn
• 1 smoked turkey wing
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced potato
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1½–2 cups cream
• Chopped fresh parsley

Makes: 6 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Slice the kernels from the ears of corn into a large bowl. Scrape the remaining pulp and milk from each cob into the bowl to capture every bit of flavor.
2. In a large kettle or soup pot, combine the turkey wing with the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then remove the turkey wing. Cut the meat from the bone and set it aside.
3. Add the corn kernels, reserved corn pulp, carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery to the broth. Return the chopped turkey meat to the pot.
4. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the chowder simmer gently until the vegetables are tender, about 25 to 30 minutes.
5. Stir in the cream and season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
6. Reheat gently, but do not allow the soup to boil after adding the cream.
7. Garnish each serving with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

• Fresh corn produces the sweetest flavor, especially during summer harvest season.
• Scraping the corn cobs after removing the kernels releases the natural corn milk, giving the chowder extra richness.
• Avoid boiling after adding the cream to maintain a smooth, velvety texture.
• Smoked turkey adds wonderful depth, but leftover smoked chicken also works well.
• Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread for a complete Southern-inspired meal.

About the Creator

Patti LaBelle, the award-winning singer, actress, and celebrated home cook, has long been known for sharing recipes that reflect her love of family, hospitality, and soul food traditions. Her contribution to The Black Family Reunion Cookbook showcases the comforting, home-style cooking that has become part of her culinary legacy.

The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women

Where to Find This Recipe

This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. This beloved cookbook preserves African American culinary traditions through treasured family recipes, regional favorites, and contributions from notable chefs, entertainers, and community leaders.