Hearty Golden Chowder

By dmason

Ingredients

• 2 cups cold water
• 2 cups chopped potatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced celery
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives
• 1 tsp. salt
• Dash pepper
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups KRAFT Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Preparation

Step 1

BRING water, vegetables, chives and seasonings to boil in medium saucepan on high heat. Reduce heat to low; cover. Simmer 10 minutes. Do not drain.

MELT butter in large saucepan on low heat. Stir in flour. Cook 2 minutes or until bubbly. Gradually add milk, stirring until well blended. Cook on medium heat until mixture boils and thickens, stirring constantly. Add cheese; cook until melted, stirring constantly.

ADD vegetable mixture; cook until heated through. Do not boil.