Corn Chowder

butter

large onion, chopped

garlic cloves, minced

celery stalks, chopped

large carrot, chopped

red pepper, seeds removed and diced

minced poblano pepper

Yukon Gold potatoes, washed and diced

vegetable broth

ears sweet corn, kernels removed-save the empty cobs to put back in the pot (or 2 cups frozen or canned corn)

all-purpose flour

skim milk

dried thyme

Salt and freshly ground black pepper,

Shredded cheddar cheese-optional, for serving