A hearty corn and potato chowder seasoned with thyme and bacon.

Corn and Potato Chowder

2 bacon slices, chopped

1 small onion, chopped

1 russet potato, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (red or green)

2 1/2 cups milk

1 (15-ounce) can creamed corn

1 cup frozen corn kernels

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1. Cook bacon in large saucepan over medium heat until fat is rendered, about 3 minutes.
2. Add onion and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
3. Add potato and bell pepper and sauté 1 minute. Add 2 cups milk and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender and soup thickens slightly, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes.
4. Add creamed corn, corn kernels and thyme to soup and simmer until heated through. Season with salt and pepper. Serve.

Serves 4.