Creamy Bacon Potato Chowder

Ingredients

• • 6 slices bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
  • 1 onion, finely chopped

• • 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 5 large potatoes, diced

• • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper

• • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half-and-half cream
  • 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon pieces over medium heat until they are crisp. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

1. 1. In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion.

1. Sauté over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. The onion will absorb the bacon flavor, adding depth to the chowder.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth and Potatoes

1. 1. Add the condensed chicken broth and water to the pot, stirring well to combine.
   2. Add the diced potatoes, salt, dried dill weed, and ground white pepper to the mixture.

1. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the soup for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Thicken the Chowder

1. 1. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and 1 cup of half-and-half until smooth, creating a slurry to help thicken the chowder.
   2. Slowly add the slurry to the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to stir for 3–4 minutes until the chowder thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Milk

1. 1. Pour in the remaining half-and-half cream and the evaporated milk, stirring to combine.
   2. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot, reserving a few pieces for garnish if desired.
   3. Heat the chowder over medium-low heat for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired consistency. Avoid bringing it to a full boil, as this may cause the dairy to curdle.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

1. Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and white pepper if needed.
2. Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnishing with the reserved bacon pieces and a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives for added flavor and presentation.