Savannah-Style Irish Potato Soup

chopped fresh thyme

garlic, finely chopped

Coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

all-purpose flour

chicken stock or reduced-fat low-sodium chicken broth

whole or 2-percent milk

russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 1 3/4 pounds)

packed grated sharp white Cheddar (about 8 ounces)

Snipped fresh chives, for garnish

canola oil

carrot, finely chopped

stalk celery, finely chopped

sweet onion, finely chopped