So here's what had to happen today: corn chowder. It makes great use of some of my favorite summer ingredients (sweet corn, red bell pepper, sweet onions, smooth potatoes, and basil) and it's pretty economical. Instead of using bacon for traditional smokiness, I used smoked cheddar for smokiness. It was surprisingly different. The slight sweetness of the basil works well with the cheese, I think. Corn Chowder with Basil and Smoked Cheddar (adapted from "Jalapeno Corn Chowder" by Paulette Mitchell ) 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup chopped onion 1 red bell pepper, minced 1 stalk celery, minced 1 carrot, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 russet or all-purpose potatoes, peeled & diced corn kernels cut from 3 ears of corn (about 2 cups) 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil (1 teaspoon dried) 1 cup milk 1/4 cup grated smoked cheddar cheese salt and pepper to taste Melt the butter over medium-high heat in a large saucepan. Add the onion, bell peppe...