HAM AND POTATO CHOWDER

1 onion, minced

2 T. butter

1 T. oil

6 med. potatoes, peeled and diced

2 lrg. stalks celery, diced

1 1/2 c. diced ham

3 T. flour

1 1/2 t. salt

1/4 t. pepper

3 1/2 c. milk

1. Sauté onion in butter and oil until it starts getting translucent. Add potatoes and stir to coat with butter. Cook slowly a few minutes, stirring to prevent sticking. Add chopped celery. Cover and cook about 10 minutes, being careful not to let them brown. Add diced ham and cook covered, about 10 minutes longer, until vegetables are almost done.

2. Remove from heat and stir in flour, salt and pepper. Once dry ingredients are thoroughly stirred in, add milk, 1 c. at a time. Bring to simmer, then simmer, covered, 15-20 minutes, being careful not to let it come to a fast boil. You might have to cook this longer at a higher altitude.