Ham 'N Cheese Chowder - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1/2 c. water
dash of salt
2 c. peeled, cubed potatoes
3 Tbsp. margarine
1 c. chopped onion
croutons (optional)
3 Tbsp. flour
dash of pepper
3 c. milk
1 1/2 c. cooked, diced ham
1 1/2 c. (6 oz.) shredded Cheddar cheese

Preparation

Place 1/2 cup water and salt in small saucepan; bring to a boil.
Add potatoes and reduce heat.
Cook 15 minutes or until tender.
Drain, reserving liquid.
Set potatoes aside.
Add enough water to potato liquid to make 1 cup.
Set aside.
Melt butter in a 3-quart Dutch oven.
Add onion; saute until tender.
Blend in flour and pepper.
Stir in milk and potato liquid.
Cook over medium heat until mixture is bubbly and slightly thickened.
Add cooked potatoes and ham; heat gently.
Remove from heat and stir in cheese.
Top with croutons, if desired.
Yield: 6 to 8 servings.