Ham Chowder

My first born turned 7 today!! Happy tears! She is such a wonderful kid. Full of life and great ideas and beautiful red hair. I am so happy that she came to me first because she is such a great help to me. Going to make the best chocolate cake ever for her. We are true kindred spirits because she is a chocolate fanatic!

On a side note: Let me just tell you that this is the most delicious ham chowder ever! I was so excited that there were leftovers for two days. It was so easy to make and most of my family loved it. (My 7 year old doesn't like much of anything!) I got this recipe from the site Eat Cake for Dinner. This place is awesome!! One of my new favorites!

Ham Chowder

From: Jenn@eatcakefordinner

1 Tbl. Butter

1 Tbl. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1/3 c. onion, finely chopped

3 carrots (about 1 1/2 c.), chopped

2 large russet potatoes, diced

garlic, minced

1 1/2-2 c. leftover spiral ham, chopped

1 can low-sodium chicken broth

4-5 c. milk

4 Tbl. cornstarch dissolved in 1/4 c. water

1 can corn, drained

2 tsp. Italian seasoning

salt & pepper

1 1/2-2 c. Cheddar cheese, grated

Heat butter and oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, chopped carrots and diced potatoes. Saute for about 10 minutes or until onions and potatoes are slightly translucent. Add the garlic and ham and cook another minute or so. Add one can of chicken broth and bring up to a boil. Boil until potatoes and carrots are tender. Add milk and stir to combine. Dissolve cornstarch in water and add to pot. Add the can of corn and season with Italian seasoning, salt and pepper (you might not need salt depending on how salty your ham, broth and corn are). Stir to combine. Cook until thickened, stirring occasionally. Last, add shredded cheese and stir until smooth and melted. Serve with sliced baguette. Serves: 5-6.