Corn Chowder with Ham and Bacon

Yesterday was Sunday- and football was on. It's starting to get cold up here in New Hampshire - so I wanted to do some warm, game day friendly comfort food. This is a really easy chowder- that is perfect for this time of year. I threw it together in 20 minutes then just let it simmer on low until we were ready to eat. Of course you can not use bacon or ham and have a super yummy vegetarian chowder too!

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 slices of bacon (uncooked - diced)
• 1 large onion finely diced
• 1 small ham steak (edges trimmed) chopped
• 1 can creamed corn
• 1 small bag frozen corn (about 2 cups)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 1 1/2 cups half and half
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced into bite sized pieces
• salt and (white) pepper to taste
• fresh parsley for garnish

In a medium pot get your diced potatoes boiling in some water, cook until almost done- drain and set aside.

In a large pot over medium heat start cooking bacon until it starts to crisp- add in the onions and cook until softened. Add in the ham and cook with the onion 1-2 minutes. Add in the milk, half and half, chicken broth, cooked potatoes, creamed corn and frozen corn. Bring to a boil for 2 minutes, then reduce to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper (I used white pepper) to taste. Serve right away or keep warming on stove on low. 

I served the chowder with grilled cheeses, and salad. It was the best dinner on a cold November night. Next time I think I'm going to try my hand at clam chowder, yum! Cheers!