Garden Chowder

Back in October 2010 when I was an extremely fresh newlywed who not only had the motivation to make a hot and new meal every night but to also make a different meal for our lunch (I was crazy and that was certainly short lived), I fixed up a Garden Chowder found on Taste of Home. We wound up having a second dinner that night because we LOVED it so much! Warm and flavorful with a tiny pepper kick! 

This is a recipe we took with us to Japan and even one Chris has surprised me with making on his own when I was off at work late! I hope you enjoy it as much as we do! 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 cup each diced potato, celery, cauliflower, carrot and broccoli
• 3 cups water
• 3 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups fat  free milk 
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
• 3 cups (12 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

Directions: In a Dutch Oven saute green peppers and onions in butter until tender. Add the vegetables, water, bouillon, salt and pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Combine the flour and milk until smooth; stir into pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Add parsley. Just before serving, stir in cheese until melted. Yields 2 quarts.