INGREDIENTS 4 slices bacon, coarsely chopped 2 yellow onions, finely chopped 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
4 large sprigs of fresh thyme¼ tsp cayenne pepper4 celery ribs, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 ½ lb Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour 2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth 2 cup heavy whipping cream2 cup whole milk 7 ears corn, husked, kernels cut off (or canned Corn) Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper¼ cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley DIRECTIONS 1. Heat the 8-quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook, stir- ring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until crisp and golden. (Drain off half of the fat) Add the onions, garlic, thyme, and cayenne and cook, stirring often, for about 4 minutes, or until the onions are tender but not browned. 2. Add the celery and cook, stirring often and being careful not to brown the vegetables, for about 4 minutes. Reduce the heat if the vegetables begin to brown. Add the potatoes, sprinkle in the flour, and stir for about 2 minutes to cook the flour; do not allow to brown. Stir in the broth, cover, and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Stir in the cream and milk and bring just to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer gently for about 3 OR MORE minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart. 3. Stir in the corn kernels and simmer for 4 minutes, or just until the corn is heated through and the chowder thickens slightly. Discard the thyme stems. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in half of the parsley. Ladle the chowder into bowls, sprinkle with the remaining parsley, and serve. MAKE-AHEAD: This chowder can be made up to 1 day ahead, cooled, covered, and refrigerated. Cover and rewarm over medium heat before serving | 