Rainy Days and Mondays--Take 5

I woke up to rain and a cold wind this morning; gloomy days make me want to make soup to fortify our souls.  I didn't want to go to the store, and the fridge was quite empty, but I did have these goodies in the house, so I set about making a ham and corn chowder, which satisfies and soothes after a cold rainy day.

This is also a great Take 5 for tomorrow, if you are in the mood for soup.

Ham and Corn Chowder
Serves 6

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
One medium onion, finely chopped
4 ribs celery, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 cups finely chopped smoked ham (you can leave this out if you want to go vegetarian, or substitute cooked chicken or smoked turkey)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups corn, either fresh cut from the cob, or frozen and defrosted
2 medium potatoes, peeled, and cut into 1/2-inch dice
1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk

1. Melt the butter in a 4-quart saucepan, and add the onion, celery, thyme and ham, sauteing for 3 to 4 minutes. 
2. Add the flour,and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Add the broth, and bring the soup to a boil, stirring until thickened. 
4. Add the potatoes, and cook for 12 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. 
5. Add the cream and bring to serving temperature.  Serve in small bread bowls, or in soup bowls with crusty bread.    
6. If you would like a lower fat soup, omit the cream/milk, and add additional chicken broth.