HAM CHOWDER RECIPE

I received this recipe in a recipe exchange several years ago. It has become a family favorite on a cold wintry night!

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Ham Steak (I buy a lean slice located near the Canadian bacon)

1 cup water

1 cup chicken stock

2 cups cubed potatoes

1/2 cup diced celery

1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots cut in half

1/4 cup diced onions

2 cups whole milk + extra

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 T butter

1/4 cup flour

salt/pepper to taste

In large pot bring water, chicken stock and veggies to boil. Simmer until veggies are tender. In smaller saucepan, make a rue with butter and flour. Cook flour about 1 minute. Add 2 cups milk, stir until thick and then add cheese. Stir till cheese melts. Add mixture into larger soup pot. Add cubed ham, simmer (do not boil) till hot and steamy. I do not like this soup to be very chunky so I dice everything pretty small. Except for the potatoes... I cube those... but on the smaller side. Add extra milk for desired consistency. I don't like mine too thick, so I always add a little more milk.