4slicesbacon, halved lengthwise then cut into 1/4 inch pieces
2teaspoonsminced fresh thyme
2teaspoonssalt
1teaspoonpepper
1/4cupall-purpose flour
5cupswater
3/4poundred potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1cuphalf-and-half
1tablespoonsugar
3tablespoonschopped fresh basil
Instructions
Using chef’s knife or corn stripper, cut kernels from corn; Being careful to remove only the part of the corn kernel sticking out of the cob; cutting deeper will pull off fibrous material. Transfer the cut kernels (you should have 5 to 6 cups kernels) to a large bowl and set aside.
Hold cobs over a second bowl and using back of butter knife, firmly scrape any remaining pulp on cobs into bowl. You will have about 2 to 2 1/2 cups pulp. Transfer pulp to center of clean kitchen towel set in medium bowl. Wrap towel tightly around pulp and squeeze tightly until dry. Discard pulp in towel and set corn juice aside; you should have about 2/3 cup juice.
Melt butter in Dutch oven over medium heat; add onion, bacon, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook, stirring frequently, until onion is softened and edges are beginning to brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Gradually add water, whisking constantly, and bring to a boil. Add corn kernels and potatoes. Return to simmer; reduce heat to medium-low and cook until potatoes have softened, 15 to 18 minutes.
Transfer 2 cups of chowder to a blender and process until smooth, 1 to 2 minutes. Return puree to chowder; add half-and-half and return to simmer. Remove pot from heat and stir in reserved corn juice. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and Sprinkle with chopped basil and serve.