{ Soup }

We didn't have a lot of money when I was a youngster. One of our go-to meals was potato soup. I loved it...still do. Since the weather has changed I have been in soup cooking mode, so the other day we decided on potato soup. I starting thinking of ways to jazz it up a bit, as the soup we usually had was just boiled potatoes and milk. Pretty boring. So I came up with this 'recipe'.

Potato Chowder with Caramelized Onions, Mushrooms and Ham

Peel and chop one medium onion. Place in skillet with one T. olive oil and 1 T. butter.

Cook on med-low till onions are golden brown and caramelized.

Add 1/2 lb. sliced and diced mushrooms.

Saute on med-low till mushrooms have cooked through. They will release their one liquid. Then add cubed, cooked ham. I use a packaged ham steak, as I always have one or two in the freezer.

Continue sauteing until you end up with this...

(This is so yummy just by itself. I couldn't keep my spoon out of it. this mixture, I discovered could be used with many things..beans, rice, whatever, but I decided to go ahead with my original potato plan.)

Peel and dice two to threes potatoes (depending on size), cover with water and boil till fork tender. Drain and put back in pot.

Add the onion-mushroom-ham mixture and cover with milk.

Heat through and serve with crusty rolls and butter. I was so pleased with the flavors that I know I will make it again and again. I might try navy beans next time.

Enjoy!!!