Ham & Cheddar Chowder

Ham & Cheddar Chowder:

4 cups water

3 potatoes, peeled & cubed

1/2 cup carrots, sliced

1/2 cup celery, diced

1/4 cup onion, diced

1/2-1 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

2 tbsp Chicken or Ham Soup Base Powder

1 tin mushroom soup

1/4 cup butter

2 cups milk

1-2 cups cheddar cheese,*shredded

1 can corn, drained

1 1/2 cups cooked ham, cubed

2-3 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water

In a large pot, bring water, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, salt and pepper to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 8-10 minutes or until veggies are tender-crisp. Do not drain! Stir in mushroom soup, corn, ham, chicken soup base, butter, and milk; simmer for a few minutes. Add cornstarch that has been mixed with water. Cook and stir well until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat. Add shredded cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and mixed in. To serve sprinkle with more shredded cheese.

*1/4- 1/2 cup cheese whiz can be used in place of the marble cheese.