3586. CORN CHOWDER with CHILI POWDER, BACON and CRUMBLED COTIJA CHEESE

yields 4 to 6 servings


Chili powder:
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt

Bacon crispies:
2 thick slices bacon, finely cubed
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Corn chowder:
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon chili powder
3 1/2 cups organic chicken stock
2 cups corn kernels
2 cups Yukon gold potatoes, cubed
sea salt
freshly cracked pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream

Garnishes:
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
lime wedges
tortilla chips

For the chili powder: Mix together the cumin, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, cayenne and salt.For the bacon: Crisp the bacon in the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat, about 10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Keep the grease.

For the chowder: Brown the onions in the same saucepan, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle on the flour and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute. Add the chicken stock, corn and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and simmer on medium-low until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. Stir in the cream and remove from the heat.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with cilantro and cheese. Sprinkle with the remaining chili powder and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve with tortilla chips.


bacon recipe source: Nadia G, "Lazy Day Dishes," Nadia G's Bitchin' Kitchen, Cooking Channel TV