Pumpkin Chowder

Hearty Pumpkin Chowder (or Butternut Squash)


2 tablespoons butter
1 cup onions, diced
1 cup celery, chopped
4 cups pumpkin, peeled and cut in 1 inch chunks or butternut squash, prepared the same way
2 tablespoons peeled fresh ginger
2 tablespoons chopped garlic
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup diced peeled potatoes
1 1/2 cups lima beans, frozen
1 cup corn kernels
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 cup ham, chunks bite sized
4 cups milk
1/2 cup flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Saute onion, celery, pumpkin, ginger and garlic in butter 5 minutes over medium heat.
Stir in broth, potatoes, lima beans, corn and bell pepper.
Boil then cover and simmer 15 minutes.
Add ham.
Whisk milk, flour, salt and nutmeg in a medium bowl.
Stir milk mixture into pot and bring to boil.
Stir a few minutes until thickened.