Sweet Potato, Cauliflower, and Corn Chowder - Finding Caroly

Ingredients

• 1 T. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 T. butter
• 1 medium onion finely diced
• 2 cloves of garlic finely minced
• 1 large jalapeño finely diced
• 1 large carrot cut in half then in thin sliced half moons
• 2 large ribs of celery thinly sliced
• 2 cups small cauliflower florets (I used one 12 oz. bag fresh)
• 1 large red sweet potato (yam) yam peeled and diced in half inch cubes
• 3 springs of fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 t. salt
• ½ t. ground black pepper
• 1 pinch of red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup flour
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
• 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese such as Dubliner
• 1 16 oz. package frozen corn (or use fresh if in season)
• 1 1/2 t. Worcestershire sauce
• Minced chives for garnish