Smoked Ham and Gouda Corn Chowder

In a large heavy bottomed pot (I use my Dutch oven) add butter and onion. Saute over medium heat until onions are translucent. Then sprinkle flour over the top and with a whisk, mix until a paste has formed.

Slowly whisk in your chicken stock. Bring to a boil and continue whisking until their are no flour lumps.

Add in corn, carrot, potato, and garlic. Bring back up to a boil the reduce heat to medium/low. Allow to simmer until the vegetables are tender. This should take about 10 minutes but test a piece of carrot or potato to make sure it’s tender.

Once the vegetables are tender, mix in your ham, and milk. Bring back up to a boil.

Once it has returned to a boil reduce heat to low. Mix in your smoked gouda cheese. Allow to simmer for 10 minutes on low. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with toppings of your choice.