SANDRA’S 30-MINUTE POTATO ‘N BACON CHOWDER

A welcoming hot chowder

on a blustery winter day that takes

minimal time to prepare...

Servings: (4)

Prep: 5 Mins.

Cook: 30 Mins.

INGREDIENTS

4 strips center-cut bacon, cut into ½” wide slices

½ yellow onion, chopped

½ red bell pepper, chopped

2 ribs celery, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

¼ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3 russet potatoes, peeled, and cut into ½” cubes

1 teaspoon old bay seasoning

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon white pepper

½ cup condensed milk (not sweetened)

--Fresh sprigs of parsley for garnish (optional)

METHOD

Brown bacon until crispy in a medium heavy-bottom saucepan over medium-high heat.  Retain drippings, and remove bacon to drain on paper towel.

To the saucepan drippings, add the onion, bell pepper, and celery.  Saute until onions are translucent.  Add garlic; saute for 30 seconds. Add flour, and stir to fully incorporate while cooking for 1 minute.

Add chicken broth to saucepan; stirring to incorporate.  Add potatoes, old bay seasoning, basil, and pepper.  Bring to boil, and reduce to low to simmer for 20 minutes, while occasionally stirring, just until potatoes are tender.

Add drained bacon and milk to chowder; stirring to combine.  Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, just until thoroughly heated (do not boil).

Ladle chowder into 4 serving bowls and garnish with sprigs of parsley. ~ Enjoy!

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Tip:  I served the delicious hot chowder with warm French bread slices, and a nice garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette.