Recipe: Quick Corn Chowder (using frozen corn)

QUICK CORN CHOWDER

2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen corn kernels, thawed
2 cups frozen diced potatoes
1 cup chopped onion
1 small red bell pepper, diced
2 cups milk
2 cups chicken broth
3/4 pound smoked ham (or smoked turkey), diced
1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
Pinch crushed red pepper

In a large saucepan, stir together corn, potatoes, onions and bell pepper. Add milk and broth and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Add ham, Old Bay and red pepper. Simmer 15 minutes or until flavors are well blended and vegetables are soft. Serve hot.

VARIATION:
For a thicker chowder, after preparing as directed, transfer 1 cup cooked soup to blender and puree until nearly smooth. Stir back into cooked soup.

FLAVOR VARIATION:
Substitute 1 teaspoon curry powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin and 1/3 teaspoon ground turmeric for Old Bay.

Makes 4 servings.
Soruce: McCormick 3-Step Cooking With Flavor by The McCormick Test Kitchens