Padawan's Corn Chowder

A special guest post from my very own Padawan; read more of her musings on The Way of the Padawan.

As a very reluctant and mediocre cook, I don’t volunteer my few worthwhile recipes often - this is one of them, adapted from one I found in one of those Southern church cookbooks I received many years ago.

I find it helpful to stick to what I know works and actually follow the recipe as well as accept advice from someone who actually makes things that taste good… yes, I’ve learned this from many unsuccessful experiments! So, here goes:

Padawan’s Corn Chowder

(makes a very large crock pot full, you know those 5 quart ones from Costco)

64 oz. chicken broth (I use this recipe for best results)
12 medium sized potatoes (I use russets) peeled and cubed
2 cans corn, drained
3 stalks celery, chopped
1 smallish onion, chopped
About a quart of milk
Salt & pepper to taste
*optional* a little onion powder for added flavor

Okay, to begin with, decide if you’re going to use store bought chicken broth or make your own. I’ve done both and much prefer the homemade.

Next, saute your onions and celery in butter 'til they’re translucent.

Now, boil the potatoes in the chicken broth on the stove, add the onions and celery. Cook for about 15 min.

Put all the ingredients except the milk in the crock pot and let simmer for a few hours. About 15 min. before serving, add the milk. - just enough to fill the crock to the desired level.

It tastes even better the second day - trust me on this one!

*For a twist, add 3 cups grated cheddar cheese and about 2 cups cooked rice along with the milk.