Bean, Potato and Ham Chowder

This is perfect on a cold, winter day.  It's very creamy and delicious.  It's also a great way to use your food storage.  Most of the ingredients come from there. :)  I served ours with some nice warm, buttered toast.  Yum!  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

-1 cup freeze-dried potato slices

-1 Tbs dehydrated onion

-3 cups vegetable broth

-1/3 cup flour

-1 cup (4 oz) shredded Swiss cheese

-3 cups milk

-1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

-1 (15 oz) can navy beans, rinsed and drained

-1 cup diced ham

-salt and pepper, to taste

-a dash or two of Tabasco, optional

Directions:

In a large stockpot, combine the broth with the potatoes and onions.  Bring to boil.  Reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine in a large bowl, the flour and cheese.  Gradually stir in the milk.  Add this mixture to the potatoes.  Stir in the Italian seasoning.

Cook until thickened and bubbly, stirring occasionally.  Add the beans and ham, and cook for 5 more minutes.  Season with salt, pepper, and Tabasco sauce, if desired.  Enjoy!