Southern Corn Chowder

INGREDIENTS

8 oz

bacon

1 cup

finely chopped onions

1 cup

finely chopped carrots

1/2 cup

finely chopped celery

2 tbsp

garlic (minced (This is about 12 small-medium cloves))

1/2

red bell pepper (finely chopped)

3 15 ounce cans

corn (drained)

1 1/2 cups

potatoes (peeled and cubed)

2 qt

chicken broth (8 cups)

1/4 tsp

cayenne pepper

1/4 cup

butter

1/4 cup

flour

1 1/2 cups

milk or half & half

**optional** 2-4 cups shredded cheddar