Servings: Serves 6 to 8 hearty appetites

Ingredients:

– 4 cups fresh sweet corn kernels (about 5-6 ears, or use frozen if that’s what you’ve got handy)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Optional: chopped crispy bacon or smoked ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives for garnish.