Creamy Chowder with Kielbasa, Bacon, Potatoes and Veggies.

A delicious comfort food, creamy chowder soup packed with plenty of vegetables, bacon, and tasty kielbasa sausage! The recipe takes some time, but it's so worth it. Advance preparation helps by chopping all veggies ahead and bagging them separately. This step can be done the night before, even the potatoes. Peel and dice potatoes, and place in a bowl covered with cold water, and refrigerate. Drain potatoes before adding to the recipe. 

The recipe was adapted from closetcooking.com and serves 6  

Creamy Chowder with Kielbasa, Bacon, Potatoes and Veggies

Ingredients:

• 5 slices of bacon, cut in half  
• 2 cups kielbasa sausage, sliced or diced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup of each of diced onions, carrots, and celery
• 3/4 cup diced red mini peppers 
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon marjoram
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon each of ginger and cumin 
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 
• 1/4 cup flour (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 large yellow (gold) potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups) 
• 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 2 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced white cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

• Cook the bacon in a large saucepan over medium heat until cooked and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserving the bacon grease in the pan.
• Add the kielbasa sausage and onions, and cook until lightly golden brown. Place the mixture on a paper-towel-lined plate. Wipe the pan clean of grease. 
• Melt the butter in the same pan, add carrots, peppers, and celery, and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
• Add in the garlic and spices.
• Sprinkle the flour in, mix, and cook for a minute.
• Add the broth and the potatoes, bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes, uncovered.
• Add the cream, corn, bacon, onions, kielbasa, and cheese. Taste before seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook uncovered on low heat for 10 minutes. Do not let the mixture boil.