Potato Corn Chowder

Just in time for Advent, a very non-fasting potato soup recipe. :) You've got a couple days to try it...

Potato Corn Chowder

1/2 pound raw bacon, diced
4 large potatoes, diced
2 ribs of celery, diced
1 onion, diced
2 tsp. Thyme
1 bay leaf
1 tsp. oregano
2 tsp. garlic powder
6 cups chicken stock/broth
2 cups corn, thawed
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/4 cup flour
Salt and pepper

In large soup pot, fry bacon. When it is about halfway done, add onion, celery, and thyme. Cook until onions are tender, then add potatoes. Give the potatoes a minute to cook with the bacon, then add chicken broth and other spices. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Add cream and corn. Do not boil, but keep at a low simmer. Whisk the flour into the milk until smooth, then stir into chowder. Simmer until thickened. Salt and pepper to taste.