Simply Delicious Slow Cooker Chowder

Simply Delicious Slow Cooker Chowder

1 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
4 cups finely diced potato (about 1/4 - 1/2 inch dice)
2 cups finely diced celery
2 cups finely diced carrot
15-16 ounces frozen corn
1 tablespoon corn starch
3 cups skim milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
1 teaspoon paprika
Add ins: steamed broccoli, or 1/2 pound of either crab, clams or shrimp

Combine the water, salt, pepper, potato, celery, carrot, corn and cornstarch in a slow cooker. Stir well. Cook on HI for 5-6 hours, LOW for 10-12 hours. If desired, puree 1-2 cups to make a thicker chowder--you can do this in a food processor, blender or using an immersion blender.

Before serving, add the milk, cheddar and paprika, stirring well to melt the cheese. Add any additional desired ingredients.