Ham & Cheese Chowder

This one's another one from Diva Karyn. Like me, Karyn would rather cook and chat and flip through magazines criticizing celebrities rather than go to the gym.

Ham & Cheese Chowder

3 cups water

4 potatoes, diced

1 cup celery, chopped

1 cup carrots, chopped

1 1/4 cups onions, diced

2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1 quart milk

4 cups sharp cheddar

2 cups ham, diced

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup flour

Boil the water; add potatoes, celery, carrots, onion, salt, and pepper.
Cover and simmer until everything is tender.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter and add the flour (a roux).
Stir in milk and cook over medium heat until mixture boils.
Stir, stir, stir.
Add cheese and stir until melted.
Add drained vegetables and ham.
Heat, but don't boil.
Serve with hot sauce.

Make it a meal: Serve with Crab Delights (see recipe)

Wine: Chardonnay or Pinot Noir