**Note:  We are already back to warm weather, and since it is back up to 75 degrees, I guess we will have to wait to have chowder again during next year's cold snap :).

Because of the crazy cold snap we had here in Savannah, with temperatures down in the 20's, I decided to break out an old favorite for dinner the other night – Bacon Chowder.  It is usually so warm here, that even though it is one of Kevin's favorites, he isn't in the mood for soup.  Well, it was definitely soup weather, and since it will remain that way in the rest of the world for a while, I thought I would share the goodness :).

BACON CHOWDER

8 slices of bacon, diced and fried crisp – set aside

4 cups diced potatoes (Put in pot, barely cover with water and cook over medium heat until done.)

This next part can be done on the stove or in the microwave, and so I'll explain both ways:

Microwave Version: Melt 3/4 cup butter with 3/4 cup flour – about 30 second -1 minute.  whisk together until smooth.  Add 1 quart half and half and cook at 2 minutes increments on high, until thick and smooth.  (Stir between each heating.  WATCH carefully, or may boil over.)

Stove top Version:  Melt 3/4 cup butter, add 3/4 cup flour and cook 3 minutes on stove, stirring constantly.  Add 1 quart half and half, and cook until smooth and thick, stirring frequently.

Add half and half mixture  and bacon to undrained potatoes.  Heat through, and serve.  (I like to put a little grated cheddar on the top for a yummy garnish.)

I hope you enjoy it as much as we do :).  And for a printer friendly copy of the recipe: Download bacon_chowder.doc