~Joyous Groundhog Day~Cheddar Corn Chowder

"Away in a meadow all covered with snow,
The little old groundhog looks for his shadow,
The clouds in the sky determine our fate,
If winter will leave us all early or late."
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I for one...am not at all disappointed that the little old groundhog saw his shadow!

I wanted to share a recipe with you to keep you warm during these snowy six more weeks of winter.


Cheddar Corn Chowder

* 8 ounces bacon, chopped
* 1/4 cup good olive oil
* 2 cups chopped red onions
* 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
* 1/2 cup flour
* 2 teaspoons kosher salt
* 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
* 12 cups chicken stock
* 6 cups medium-diced Yukon Gold potatoes, (2 pounds)
* 2 Cans of Creamed Corn
* 2 cups half-and-half
* 8 ounces CABOT cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, cook the bacon and olive oil until the bacon is crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and reserve. Reduce the heat to medium, add the onions and butter to the fat, and cook for 10 minutes,
until the onions are translucent.

Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and cook for 3 minutes. Add the chicken stock and potatoes, bring to a boil, and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Add the corn to the soup, then add the half-and-half and cheddar.

Cook for 5 more minutes, until the cheese is melted. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Crumble bacon and either stir it into the chowder or serve sprinkled on top of each individual serving. Enjoy!
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The original recipe is from Barefoot Contessa (who I love) but I've altered it a bit to use some of my favorite ingredients. Try it...I promise you will not be disappointed. We just had it one night last week and I'm making it again for dinner tonight as Mom and Dad are coming over for dinner and they are dying to try it.

Enjoy your day
Doreen