CHEDDAR HAM CHOWDER

  •  2 cups water

  • 2 cups cubed peeled potatoes

  • 1/2 cup sliced carrots

  • 1/2 cup sliced celery

  • 1/4 cup chopped onion

  • 1 tsp. salt

  • 1/4 tsp. pepper

  • 1/4 cup butter

  • 1/4 cup flour

  • 2 cups milk

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 can (16 oz) whole kernel corn, drained

  • 1 1/2 cups cubed fully cooked ham

In a large saucepan, bring the water, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, salt and pepper to a boil.  Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until vegetables are just tender.  Remove from the heat; DO NOT DRAIN.  Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt the butter.  Blend in flour.  Add the milk all at once; cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.  Add cheese and stir until melted.  Stir into the undrained vegetables; return large saucepan to the heat.  Add corn and ham; heat through, stirring occasionally.  Makes 2 quarts.