Here’s what you will need:
8 ears of corn, husked, and kernels cut from the cob
3 tablespoons butter
6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 clove garlic, minced
5 cups chicken stock
1 pound yellow potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup half and half
1 tablespoon honey
Fresh chives, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked chopped bacon for garnish
Begin by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Then, add the onion and bacon. Cook until the onion is soft, translucent, and beginning to brown around the edges, about 8 – 10 minutes.
Add the flour and garlic; then cook for an additional minute.
Next, slowly whisk in the chicken stock. Bring to a boil while continuing to stir. Then, add the potatoes and corn kernels. Season with thyme and bay leaf. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a light boil; then reduce the heat and allow to summer, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender (about 20 minutes).
Once the potatoes are tender, remove the bay leaf. Transfer about 3 cups of the chowder to a blender. Blend until smooth. Stir the pureed chowder back into the pot and add the half and half and the honey. Serve hot, garnished with chives, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon.
