Potato and Ham Chowder

Ingredients

• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Bay leaf (1)
• Thyme (1 teaspoon)
• Butter (4 tablespoons)
• All (purpose flour - 1/4 cup)
• Milk (2 cups)
• Chicken broth (4 cups)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Carrots (2 medium, diced)
• Celery (2 stalks, chopped)
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
• Ham (1 cup, diced)
• Potatoes (4 cups, peeled and diced)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk.
5. Add the diced potatoes, ham, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped parsley.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!